Regenerative supply chains in Vietnamese agriculture: extending natural resource theory through collective waste utilization and social benefit

Our research explores how firms create sustainable competitive advantage when adopting regenerative practices in the Vietnamese agricultural sector. We define regenerative supply chains (RSCs) and extend natural resource-based theory through the lens of new revenue streams, ecosystem restoration and social innovation. A multiple-case research design inducts theory from business strategy and natural resource theory, utilizing data from three firms engaged in RSC to create theoretical constructs and propositions. We find that firms in Vietnam that engage in regenerative practices adopt collaborative activities involving waste utilization, leading to social benefits in local communities and international trade. The research also reveals that traditional and modern technological practices coexist in RSC, which has implications for resource transferability between firms. We propose a more nuanced approach to RSC development, which emphasizes the importance of adaptability and context-specific strategies for sustainable competitive advantage that connects the supply chain with community and natural ecosystems.