Leveraging Blockchain Technology to Combat Counterfeiting: Expert Perspectives and Practical Solutions

Author(s):

  • Thi Thuy Hanh Nguyen (University of Economics and Law and Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
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Abstract:
Counterfeiting has become a significant global issue, raising concerns among stakeholders in supply chains. Counterfeit products often contain substandard or hazardous components, posing significant health risks, particularly in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food. They may lead to consumer illness or even death, while also causing substantial revenue losses for businesses, disrupting legitimate supply chains, damaging brand reputation, and weakening consumer confidence. Counterfeit goods are often manufactured in unregulated settings that disregard environmental standards, resulting in the use of toxic materials, improper waste disposal, and increased pollution. Therefore, preventing counterfeit goods is crucial to ensuring the economic benefits of all stakeholders and promoting the sustainable development of the supply chain. Blockchain Technology (BT) is a revolutionary technology that offers several unique characteristics for combating counterfeiting. Nevertheless, BT deployment currently remains in the experimental stage, especially for anti-counterfeiting purposes. This study examines the barriers that hinder the adoption of BT-based solutions. This is the first study to conduct interviews with academic and industry experts to look into the key barriers to deploying BT-based anti-counterfeiting solutions. This study utilized key barriers identified in previous studies, including technological, organizational, and environmental barriers, to establish a foundation for interview questions. Semi-structured questions will be selected to obtain expert opinions and viewpoints on the significant challenges in Vietnam. As a result, this study indicated that deployment cost is the most significant technological barrier. A lack of competence and skills is a significant organizational barrier, whereas the absence of a defined legal framework is the most significant environmental barrier. In addition to the most significant barriers, several other barriers are identified, such as limited customer awareness, a lack of reliable service providers, and inadequate national infrastructure. As a result, practical solutions have been proposed to address those barriers and encourage stakeholders to adopt blockchain-based solutions.
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@article{thithuyhanhnguyen-2026-1722,
  title={Leveraging Blockchain Technology to Combat Counterfeiting: Expert Perspectives and Practical Solutions},
  author={Thi Thuy Hanh  Nguyen},
  journal={Operations and Supply Chain Management: An International Journal},
  year={2026},
  volume={19},
  number={1},
  pages={164--181},
  doi={10.31387/oscm0640513}
}
Thi Thuy Hanh  Nguyen (2026). Leveraging Blockchain Technology to Combat Counterfeiting: Expert Perspectives and Practical Solutions. Operations and Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, 19(1), 164-181. https://doi.org/10.31387/oscm0640513