Challenges of Network Interactions between Industrial and Agricultural Cooperatives in Zanjan Province

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Geography, Faculty of Humanities, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran.

2 Department of Human Geography, Faculty of Earth Sciences , Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jsbu.2026.401638.1063

Abstract

Cooperatives play a fundamental role in the comprehensive development of countries by improving productivity and resource synergy. Despite the extensive agricultural and industrial capacities in Zanjan province, network interactions between cooperatives are not efficient, which has led to limitations in resource provision, market development, and synergy. This research aimed to identify the challenges of network interactions of industrial and agricultural cooperatives in the province and to provide solutions to strengthen cooperation and achieve sustainable development. This research was conducted with a qualitative approach and grounded theory strategy to explain the network interactions of industrial and agricultural cooperatives in Zanjan province. Data were collected and analyzed through a library study and 25 semi-structured interviews with purposive sampling. The findings showed that economic fluctuations, lack of capital, weak trust and social capital, administrative complexities, lack of management coordination, and inefficiency of technical and environmental infrastructures are obstacles to the productivity, resilience, and innovation of networks. The proposed paradigm model mapped the relationships between causal, contextual, intervening conditions, and actions with outcomes such as strengthening networking and expanding cooperatives, and presented five theoretical propositions to explain supply chain barriers. Despite the high capacity of cooperatives, network constraints have led to dependence on imports and weakened local markets. Strengthening intermediary institutions, training managers and members, investing in infrastructure, and promoting sustainable agriculture and renewable energy are among the suggested solutions to increase efficiency and sustainable development in the province.

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