Innovation adoption case study and the potential of Blockchain on Trade Single Window : Identification of adoption challenges and suggestions for Pakistan Single Window

Abstract: Governments facilitate cross-border trade to boost economy. Many developed countries have adopted the national Trade Single Window (SW) solution which has a single-entry point for all trade-related papers. However, adoption of such new technology is difficult, especially for less developed countries. Through the example of Pakistan, we shed light on how adopting situation of SW in a developing country is like. Attempts to provide advice for adoption at organizational and individual levels; show appropriate approaches for developing countries; and bridge the SW knowledge gap between the developed and developing worlds. After interviewing ten Pakistani Single Window (PSW) stakeholders, this paper utilizes a thematic analysis to summarize the findings in two theoretical frameworks, the Theory of Acceptance Model with the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Technology-Organization-Environment Framework, from multiple perspectives. Our findings reveal: firstly, that individuals' perceptions of new technology are hampered by a lack of corresponding skill sets and knowledge. Secondly, limited organizational resources and a lack of technological maturity impede adoption. Finally, governmental pressure and support significantly influence stakeholders' adoption in Pakistan. According to the study, people and organizations in Pakistan are involved in corruption during trade; therefore, losing control to old systems has made them resist adoption. We suggest that Blockchain technology potentially enhance PSW adoption alongside with its improvements, but only if the necessary resources and infrastructure would be available, which are missing in Pakistan right now. This study has significant theoretical implications for innovation adoption and practical implications for SW rollout in developing countries, and ultimately, it points to the opportunity for future research.