Examination of adoption barriers of digitalization of maritime logistics: a DEMATEL approach

Purpose This study aims to identify and analyse key barriers to digitalization in maritime logistics using the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) methodology to establish their cause–effect relationships. Design/methodology/approach The study conducts a detailed literature review and collects expert opinions, and as a result, 18 significant barriers to digitalization in maritime logistics are identified. The DEMATEL technique determines the cause-and-effect relationship between the identified barriers based on their significance. Findings The present study concluded that three barriers, namely, “Lack of trained professional human resources,” “Employee’s and Manager’s resistance” and “Linking all the stakeholders with upgraded technology,” are the most significant factors influencing the digitalization of maritime logistics. Research limitations/implications This study uses a DEMATEL model by considering inputs from domain experts to guide maritime stakeholders and government institutions in developing new regulations or updating old rules to digitalize maritime logistics effectively. Originality/value This study contributes methodologically by applying the DEMATEL technique to uncover cause–effect relationships among 18 digitalization barriers and theoretically by contextualizing findings within innovation diffusion and institutional theory, offering new insights from the Indian maritime logistics sector.