# Immersive Digital Twin Integration in the Metaverse for Supply Chain Resilience and Disruption Management

Charles Onyeka Nwamekwe, Emeka Celestine Nwabunwanne

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Charles Onyeka Nwamekwe, Emeka Celestine Nwabunwanne. Immersive Digital Twin Integration in the Metaverse for Supply Chain Resilience and Disruption Management. Journal of Engineering Research and Applied Science, 2025, 14 (1), pp.95-105. hal-05209693

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# Immersive Digital Twin Integration in the Metaverse for Supply Chain Resilience and Disruption Management

Charles Onyeka Nwamekwe¹*, Emeka Celestine Nwabunwanne²

¹,²Industrial/Production Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

¹(0009-0002-1918-1350) ID, ²(0009-0009-6422-4429) ID

Accepted 27 May 2025

## Abstract

The growing complexity and volatility of global supply chains necessitate the adoption of advanced technological solutions to enhance resilience and disruption management. This research explores the integration of immersive Digital Twins (DTs) within the Metaverse as a transformative approach to mitigating supply chain risks. Digital Twins, augmented with Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain, offer real-time predictive analytics, simulation, and decision-making capabilities. The study examines the role of the Metaverse in enhancing supply chain visualization, predictive risk management, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Furthermore, it identifies key challenges such as high infrastructure costs, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and regulatory constraints while proposing future research directions in AI-driven autonomous decision-making, advancements in edge computing and 6G connectivity, and the development of standardization frameworks. By leveraging immersive DTs in the Metaverse, organizations can improve supply chain agility, optimize crisis response, and ensure sustainable operations in an increasingly unpredictable business environment.

**Keywords:** Immersive Digital Twins, Metaverse Supply Chain, Supply Chain Resilience, Disruption Management, Blockchain in Supply Chains

## 1. Introduction

### 1.1. Background and Motivation

The global supply chain landscape is increasingly complex, dynamic, and vulnerable to various disruptions, including pandemics, natural disasters, and geopolitical tensions. Supply chain resilience (SCR) refers to the ability of a supply chain to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disruptions, ensuring continuity and stability in operations [1],[2],[3]. Disruption management encompasses strategies and practices aimed at minimizing the impact of unexpected events, such as natural disasters or geopolitical tensions, on supply chain performance [4]. Traditional supply chain risk management strategies often rely on historical data and static models, which can lead to inefficiencies in crisis response due to their lack of real-time adaptability and predictive capabilities [5]. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations faced significant challenges as their existing frameworks failed to accommodate the rapid changes in supply and demand dynamics [6]. Consequently, there is a growing recognition of the need for advanced

resilience analytics and the integration of emerging technologies, such as Digital Twins and the Metaverse, to enhance visualization, simulation, and predictive analytics in supply chain operations [7],[8].

A Digital Twin (DT) is defined as a virtual replica of a physical system, enabling real-time monitoring, simulation, and optimization of supply chain processes [9],[10]. The integration of DTs with the Metaverse—a collective of immersive digital environments powered by technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Blockchain—offers transformative potential for enhancing supply chain resilience and disruption management [11]. This synergy provides a realistic and interactive platform that enhances supply chain visibility, collaboration, and decision-making, facilitating proactive rather than reactive crisis management [12]. The application of DTs within the Metaverse allows for dynamic simulations that can predict potential disruptions and optimize responses in real-time, thereby addressing the limitations of traditional supply chain risk
management strategies that often lack adaptability. By leveraging these advanced technologies, organizations can significantly improve their operational resilience, ensuring they are better equipped to navigate the complexities of modern supply chains.

This review aims to explore the role of immersive metaverse-powered digital twins in enhancing supply chain resilience and disruption management. The key objectives are:

* To evaluate how digital twins, within the metaverse, improve risk detection and mitigation in supply chain management.

* To analyse the effectiveness of predictive analytics and scenario simulations for handling disruptions such as pandemics, natural disasters, and geopolitical risks.

* To investigate how real-time collaboration, decentralization, and blockchain-based security improve supply chain decision-making and crisis response.

## 2. Digital Twin Technology and the Metaverse

### 2.1 Concept and Evolution of Digital Twins

The concept of DTs originated from NASA's spacecraft simulations in the 1960s and has evolved significantly over the decades to find applications across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare [9],[13]. A digital twin serves as a virtual representation of a physical asset or process, utilizing real-time data captured through sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT), and AI-driven analytics to mirror the physical counterpart [9]. This evolution has been driven by advancements in technology, enabling DTs to provide enhanced insights and operational efficiencies. In the context of supply chains, DTs can simulate various components such as warehouse operations, transportation networks, and inventory flows, facilitating real-time tracking, forecasting, and performance optimization [14]. The ability to simulate potential supply chain disruptions before they occur positions DTs as invaluable tools for risk management, allowing organizations to proactively address vulnerabilities and enhance resilience [14]. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the integration of DTs into supply chain management is expected to play a pivotal role in navigating complexities and ensuring operational continuity.

### 2.2 The Role of the Metaverse in Digital Twin Integration

The Metaverse extends digital twin functionalities by introducing an immersive, interactive, and decentralized environment. Key technological enablers include:

a. VR/AR for Immersive Visualization: The Metaverse plays a pivotal role in the integration of DTs by providing immersive environments that enhance visualization and interaction among stakeholders in supply chain management. Utilizing VR and AR, the Metaverse allows users to navigate and interact with complex supply chain models in a virtual space, significantly improving situational awareness and training capabilities [15]. This immersive visualization facilitates a deeper understanding of supply chain dynamics, enabling stakeholders to visualize processes, identify bottlenecks, and assess the impact of potential disruptions in real-time [1]. Moreover, the integration of DTs within the Metaverse supports collaborative decision-making by allowing multiple stakeholders to engage with the same virtual model simultaneously. This collaborative aspect is crucial for fostering communication and coordination among various supply chain participants, which is essential for effective disruption management [16]. By simulating various scenarios, organizations can proactively develop strategies to mitigate risks, thereby enhancing overall supply chain resilience [17]. As digital transformation continues to evolve, the Metaverse's capabilities will further empower supply chains to adapt and thrive in an increasingly complex environment.

b. AI and IoT for Real-Time Decision-Making: The Metaverse significantly enhances the integration of DTs by leveraging AI and the IoT to facilitate real-time decision-making. AI-driven digital twins analyse both historical and real-time data, providing predictive insights that are crucial during crisis scenarios [18]. This capability allows organizations to anticipate potential disruptions and automate responses, thereby improving operational efficiency and resilience in supply chain management [19],[3]. In the context of supply chains, the combination of AI and IoT within the Metaverse enables DTs to create dynamic simulations that reflect the current state of operations. This real-time monitoring allows for immediate adjustments based on data analytics, which is essential for effective crisis management [20]. For instance, predictive analytics can identify patterns and anomalies, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions swiftly. Furthermore, the immersive nature of the Metaverse enhances collaboration among stakeholders, allowing them to visualize complex scenarios and engage in interactive simulations that support strategic planning and risk mitigation. As such, the
Metaverse serves as a transformative platform that not only integrates DTs but also amplifies their capabilities in managing supply chain disruptions.

c. Blockchain for Secure Transactions: The Metaverse plays a crucial role in the integration of DTs by leveraging blockchain technology to enhance security and trust in supply chain transactions. Blockchain, characterized by its decentralized ledger technology, ensures transparency and data integrity, which are vital for mitigating fraud and improving supplier verification [21]. In the context of supply chains, this technology allows for secure and traceable transactions, enabling stakeholders to verify the authenticity of products and services throughout

the supply chain lifecycle [22]. By integrating blockchain with DTs in the Metaverse, organizations can create a robust framework for managing supply chain operations. This integration facilitates real-time tracking of goods and services, ensuring that all transactions are recorded immutably and can be audited at any time [21]. Furthermore, the combination of blockchain and DTs enhances collaboration among supply chain partners by providing a shared, transparent view of the supply chain, which fosters trust and accountability [22]. As a result, the Metaverse not only enhances the operational efficiency of supply chains but also strengthens their resilience against disruptions by ensuring that all stakeholders have access to accurate and timely information.

<figure><img src="image_2.png" /><figcaption>Figure 1: A Conceptual Drawing of Digital Twin Technology and the Metaverse (Authors' Simulated Design)</figcaption></figure>

Figure 1 is a conceptual drawing illustrating the integration of Digital Twin technology with the Metaverse in supply chain management.

# 3. Applications in Supply Chain Disruption Management

## 3.1 Predictive Risk Management

One of the most promising applications of metaverse-integrated digital twins is predictive risk management. By leveraging AI and big data analytics, organizations can:

Predictive risk management is a critical application of DTs within the Metaverse, enabling organizations to proactively address supply chain vulnerabilities. First, developing risk forecasting models that anticipate potential disruptions is essential. These models

leverage historical data and real-time analytics to identify weaknesses in the supply chain, allowing stakeholders to prepare for various scenarios, including pandemics and extreme weather events [18],[23].

Second, simulating disruption scenarios is vital for refining contingency plans. By creating virtual environments where stakeholders can visualize and interact with potential disruptions, organizations can better understand the implications of various risk factors and develop effective response strategies. This simulation capability enhances the agility of supply chains, enabling quicker adjustments to unforeseen challenges.
Finally, optimizing supplier selection and logistics strategies based on real-time risk assessments is crucial for maintaining supply chain resilience. By integrating predictive analytics with DTs, organizations can evaluate suppliers' reliability and logistics efficiency, ensuring that decisions are data-driven and aligned with current risk profiles [24],[25]. This comprehensive approach to predictive risk management not only mitigates potential disruptions but also enhances overall supply chain performance.

## 3.2 Real-Time Response and Adaptation

A digital twin within the Metaverse enables real-time crisis response through:

a. Virtual Command Centres: The integration of DTs within the Metaverse facilitates real-time response and adaptation in supply chain management through the establishment of virtual command centres. These immersive digital environments empower supply chain managers to remotely monitor and coordinate logistics, inventory, and distribution channels effectively. By utilizing advanced visualization tools and real-time data analytics, managers can gain comprehensive insights into supply chain operations, enabling them to make informed decisions swiftly during disruptions. Virtual command centres allow for the simulation of various operational scenarios, which enhances situational awareness and enables proactive management of potential disruptions. For instance, in the event of a supply chain crisis, such as a natural disaster or a sudden spike in demand, managers can utilize these immersive environments to visualize the impact on logistics and inventory levels, facilitating timely adjustments to strategies. This capability not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances collaboration among stakeholders, as team members can interact within the same virtual space, sharing insights and coordinating responses in real-time. Furthermore, the ability to integrate IoT data with DTs in the Metaverse enhances the responsiveness of supply chains. Real-time data from sensors and connected devices can be visualized in the virtual command centre, allowing for immediate identification of issues and rapid adaptation of logistics plans. This integration ultimately leads to a more resilient supply chain capable of navigating disruptions effectively.

b. Immersive Training Simulations: Immersive training simulations using VR are increasingly recognized as a vital tool for preparing employees for emergency responses and operational shifts in supply chain management. By conducting VR-

based risk training, organizations can create realistic scenarios that mimic potential disruptions, such as natural disasters or pandemics, allowing employees to practice their responses in a safe and controlled environment [1]. This approach not only enhances the preparedness of staff but also fosters a culture of resilience within the organization. The immersive nature of VR training enables participants to engage with complex supply chain dynamics, improving their situational awareness and decision-making skills during actual crises [2]. For instance, employees can experience the impact of supply chain disruptions firsthand, learning to navigate challenges such as inventory shortages or logistical delays effectively. This experiential learning is crucial for developing the agility needed to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances [26],[27]. Moreover, these simulations can be tailored to specific organizational contexts, ensuring that training is relevant and aligned with the unique challenges faced by the supply chain [5]. As a result, immersive training simulations not only prepare employees for immediate operational shifts but also contribute to long-term resilience by embedding adaptive capabilities within the workforce [28]. By integrating such training into their operational strategies, organizations can enhance their overall responsiveness and adaptability in the face of disruptions.

c. Automated Adjustments: Automated adjustments facilitated by AI-powered DTs are transforming real-time response and adaptation in supply chain management. These advanced systems can dynamically reconfigure supply chain routes and supplier networks in response to evolving disruptions, such as natural disasters, geopolitical events, or sudden shifts in demand [29]. By leveraging real-time data and predictive analytics, organizations can swiftly identify emerging risks and implement necessary changes to maintain operational continuity. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies utilized AI-driven DTs to optimize their supply chain configurations, ensuring that logistics and supplier networks remained agile and responsive to fluctuating conditions [29]. This capability allows supply chain managers to assess multiple scenarios and make informed decisions that enhance resilience. Automated adjustments can include rerouting shipments, reallocating inventory, or selecting alternative suppliers based on current risk assessments [30]. Moreover, the integration of IoT devices with AI-powered DTs enables continuous monitoring of supply chain performance, allowing
for immediate identification of disruptions and the execution of automated responses. This real-time adaptability not only minimizes the impact of disruptions but also fosters a proactive approach to supply chain management, ultimately leading to improved efficiency and reduced operational costs. As organizations increasingly adopt these technologies, the ability to dynamically adjust supply chain strategies will be crucial for navigating the complexities of modern supply chains.

## 3.3 Collaboration and Decentralization in Supply Chains

The Metaverse fosters decentralized, collaborative supply chain networks, offering benefits such as:

a. **Multi-Stakeholder Decision-Making:** The integration of DTs within the Metaverse significantly enhances collaboration and decentralization in supply chains through multi-stakeholder decision-making. Virtual environments facilitate seamless interaction among various supply chain participants, including suppliers, manufacturers, logistics providers, and regulators [31]. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing the complexities and uncertainties inherent in modern supply chains, particularly during disruptive events. In virtual environments, stakeholders can engage in real-time discussions, share critical data, and collaboratively develop strategies to mitigate risks. This level of interaction fosters transparency and trust among partners, which is crucial for effective supply chain management [7]. For instance, during a disruption, such as a natural disaster or a pandemic, stakeholders can quickly assess the situation, evaluate alternative routes or suppliers, and make informed decisions collectively. This dynamic decision-making process enhances the overall resilience of the supply chain by ensuring that all parties are aligned and responsive to changing conditions. Moreover, the decentralized nature of these virtual environments allows for greater flexibility in supply chain operations. Stakeholders can access and analyse data from various sources, enabling them to adapt their strategies based on real-time insights. This capability not only improves operational efficiency but also empowers organizations to respond proactively to disruptions, thereby enhancing their competitive advantage in the marketplace. As the Metaverse continues to evolve, its role in facilitating collaboration and decentralization in supply chains will be increasingly critical for

building resilient and adaptive supply chain networks.

b. **Decentralized Control Towers:** The implementation of decentralized control towers, powered by AI-driven DTs and blockchain technology, is revolutionizing collaboration and decentralization in supply chains. These control towers facilitate secure transactions and enable autonomous adjustments across the supply chain, enhancing operational efficiency and resilience during disruptions [32]. By integrating real-time data analytics with blockchain's immutable ledger, organizations can achieve greater transparency and traceability, which are critical for effective decision-making in complex supply chain environments [11]. Decentralized control towers allow multiple stakeholders—such as suppliers, manufacturers, logistics providers, and regulators—to interact seamlessly within a shared virtual environment. This collaborative framework fosters enhanced communication and coordination, enabling stakeholders to respond swiftly to emerging challenges. For example, in the event of a supply chain disruption, such as a natural disaster or geopolitical instability, these control towers can facilitate real-time adjustments to logistics routes and supplier networks, ensuring that operations remain agile and responsive [32]. Moreover, the use of blockchain technology within these decentralized control towers enhances trust among supply chain partners by providing a secure platform for transactions and data sharing. Smart contracts can automate processes, reducing the need for intermediaries and minimizing the risk of fraud [33]. This not only streamlines operations but also empowers organizations to make data-driven decisions that enhance supply chain resilience. As the landscape of supply chain management continues to evolve, the integration of decentralized control towers will be pivotal in fostering collaboration and adaptability among stakeholders, ultimately leading to more resilient supply chains.

c. **Resilient Supply Networks:** The development of resilient supply networks is significantly enhanced through the simulation and testing of various sourcing and logistics strategies in virtual environments. By utilizing immersive DTs integrated within the Metaverse, organizations can create robust supply chain ecosystems that are better equipped to withstand disruptions [31]. These virtual simulations allow stakeholders to explore different scenarios, assess potential risks,
and evaluate the effectiveness of alternative strategies without the financial and operational implications of real-world testing. Through these simulations, organizations can identify vulnerabilities in their supply chains and develop proactive strategies to mitigate risks. For example, by analysing the impact of different sourcing options or logistics routes, companies can optimize their supply chain configurations to enhance resilience against potential disruptions, such as natural disasters or geopolitical tensions [5],[26]. This capability not only fosters a deeper understanding of supply chain dynamics but also encourages collaboration among stakeholders, as they can collectively engage in the decision-making process within the virtual environment.

Moreover, the integration of AI and blockchain technologies within these simulations further enhances the resilience of supply networks. AI can analyse vast amounts of data to provide predictive insights, while blockchain ensures secure and transparent transactions among supply chain partners [28],[34]. This combination allows for real-time adjustments to sourcing and logistics strategies, promoting a decentralized approach that empowers organizations to respond swiftly to changing conditions [4]. Ultimately, the ability to simulate and test various strategies in a virtual space is crucial for developing resilient supply chains that can adapt to the complexities of today's global market.

<figure><img src="image_3.png" /><figcaption>Figure 2: Diagram of a Futuristic Digital Twin-Driven Supply Chain Management Visualization (Authors' Simulated Design)</figcaption></figure>

Figure 2 is a conceptual drawing that represents the key ideas from the research. It includes visual elements like digital twins, virtual command centres, AI-powered risk prediction, decentralized control towers, and immersive training simulations.

# 4. Challenges and Future Research Directions

## 4.1 Key Challenges

Despite its transformative potential, the adoption of metaverse-powered digital twins in supply chain risk management faces several challenges:

a. **High Infrastructure Costs:** The integration of immersive DT systems in the Metaverse for supply chain resilience and disruption management presents several key challenges, particularly regarding high infrastructure costs. Implementing these advanced systems necessitates substantial

investments in various technologies, including AI, VR, AR, IoT sensors, and cloud computing [35]. These technologies are essential for creating the immersive environments that facilitate real-time monitoring, simulation, and optimization of supply chain processes. The financial burden associated with acquiring and maintaining such technologies can be a significant barrier for many organizations, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may lack the necessary capital [35]. Additionally, the complexity of integrating multiple technologies into a cohesive system can lead to increased operational costs and require specialized skills that may not be readily available within the existing workforce. This challenge is compounded by the rapid pace of technological advancement, which necessitates continuous
investment to keep systems updated and effective [36]. Moreover, organizations must also consider the ongoing costs associated with data management, cybersecurity, and compliance with regulations related to data privacy and protection, particularly when utilizing IoT and blockchain technologies [31]. These factors can further strain financial resources and complicate the implementation process. As a result, addressing these high infrastructure costs is critical for the successful adoption of immersive Digital Twin systems in supply chain management.

b. **Cybersecurity Risks:** As supply chains increasingly adopt immersive DT systems within the Metaverse, they face significant challenges, particularly concerning cybersecurity risks. The digitization and decentralization of supply chains expose them to a range of cyber threats, including data breaches, hacking, and identity theft [11]. As organizations integrate advanced technologies such as AI, VR/AR, and IoT into their operations, the complexity of their digital environments grows, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals [11]. The reliance on interconnected systems means that a vulnerability in one part of the supply chain can have cascading effects, compromising the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data across the entire network. For instance, unauthorized access to IoT devices can lead to manipulation of data, which may disrupt logistics operations or result in financial losses [37]. Furthermore, as organizations increasingly utilize blockchain technology for secure transactions, they must also address potential vulnerabilities within these systems, as any breach could undermine trust and collaboration among supply chain partners [38]. To mitigate these cybersecurity risks, organizations must invest in robust security measures, including encryption, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring of their digital environments [39]. Additionally, fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness among employees is crucial, as human error remains a significant factor in many security breaches. Future research should focus on developing comprehensive frameworks that integrate cybersecurity best practices into the design and implementation of immersive DT systems, ensuring that supply chains can leverage these technologies while safeguarding against cyber threats.

c. **Regulatory and Privacy Concerns:** One of the critical challenges facing the integration of

immersive Digital Twin systems in the Metaverse for supply chain resilience and disruption management is the regulatory and privacy concerns associated with data protection laws and global trade regulations. As supply chains become increasingly digitized and decentralized, they generate vast amounts of sensitive data, which must be managed in compliance with various legal frameworks [1]. This complexity is heightened by the global nature of supply chains, where different jurisdictions may have conflicting regulations regarding data privacy and security. Organizations must navigate a landscape of regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the United States, which impose strict requirements on how personal data is collected, stored, and processed [40]. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant financial penalties and reputational damage, making it imperative for companies to implement robust data governance frameworks. Additionally, the decentralized nature of blockchain technology, often used in conjunction with DT, raises further regulatory challenges, as it can complicate the identification of responsible parties in the event of data breaches or compliance failures [6]. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological advancement means that regulations often lag behind innovations, creating uncertainty for organizations attempting to implement new technologies [41]. This regulatory ambiguity can hinder investment in immersive DT systems, as companies may be reluctant to adopt technologies that could expose them to legal risks [8].

## 4.2 Future Research Directions

To address these challenges, future research should focus on:

*   **AI-Driven Autonomous Decision-Making:** Future research directions in the integration of AI-driven autonomous decision-making within digital twins for enhancing supply chain resilience and disruption management should focus on several key areas. Firstly, the enhancement of AI capabilities in digital twins can significantly improve real-time risk assessment and self-optimizing supply chains. Studies have shown that AI technologies, such as machine learning and predictive analytics, can enhance risk management by providing accurate demand forecasting and real-time monitoring, thus enabling organizations to respond effectively to disruptions. Future research should also explore the ethical implications and challenges associated with
implementing AI-driven solutions in supply chains, ensuring that these technologies are used responsibly and effectively. By addressing these areas, researchers can contribute to the development of more resilient supply chains capable of navigating the complexities of modern disruptions.

* Advancements in Edge Computing and 6G Connectivity: Future research directions for the integration of immersive digital twins in the metaverse, particularly concerning advancements in edge computing and 6G connectivity, are pivotal for enhancing supply chain resilience and disruption management. The reduction of latency and improvement in scalability are critical factors that can significantly enhance the performance of digital twin applications. As edge computing facilitates real-time data processing closer to the source, it minimizes latency, thereby enabling faster decision-making and more responsive

supply chain operations. The anticipated capabilities of 6G networks, including ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC), will further augment the functionality of digital twins by supporting high-bandwidth applications essential for immersive environments. This synergy between edge computing and 6G can lead to more robust and scalable digital twin frameworks that can adapt to the dynamic nature of supply chains, allowing for real-time monitoring and optimization. Future research should also explore the integration of machine learning algorithms within these frameworks to enhance predictive capabilities, enabling proactive risk management and operational adjustments in response to potential disruptions. By focusing on these technological advancements, researchers can significantly contribute to the development of resilient supply chains capable of thriving in an increasingly complex and interconnected global landscape.

<figure><img src="image_4.png" /><figcaption>Figure 3: Conceptual Framework for Immersive Digital Twin Integration in the Metaverse for Supply Chain Resilience
(Authors' Simulated Design)</figcaption></figure>

* Standardization and Interoperability: Future research directions in the realm of immersive digital twin integration within the metaverse for supply chain resilience and disruption management must prioritize the development of standardization and interoperability frameworks. The establishment of universal protocols is essential for ensuring seamless integration of digital twins across diverse metaverse platforms and supply chain networks. Current literature highlights

significant interoperability challenges that hinder the effective collaboration of digital twins within urban systems and industrial environments. To address these challenges, researchers should focus on creating dynamic knowledge graphs that facilitate the integration of knowledge models from various domains, thereby enhancing adaptability and interoperability. Moreover, the application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) principles can provide a structured approach
to managing the complexities of digital twin interactions within urban manufacturing contexts. Furthermore, the development of a modular architecture for digital twins, as suggested in recent studies, could enable scalable and flexible implementations that accommodate varying industry needs. This modularity would support the integration of digital twins with existing systems while promoting data sharing and collaboration among stakeholders. By advancing these areas, future research can significantly enhance the resilience and efficiency of supply chains in the face of disruptions.

The diagram in figure 3, visually represents the integration of digital twins with AI, IoT, VR/AR, and blockchain in a metaverse environment to enhance supply chain resilience, optimize real-time decision-making, and mitigate disruptions

## 5. Conclusion

The integration of immersive digital twins within the metaverse represents a paradigm shift in supply chain resilience and disruption management. By leveraging advanced technologies such as AI, VR/AR, IoT, and blockchain, organizations can achieve predictive risk management, real-time adaptive response, and enhanced collaboration. These capabilities offer significant advantages in mitigating global supply chain risks, ranging from pandemics to geopolitical crises.

However, the widespread adoption of this transformative approach faces several hurdles, including high infrastructure costs, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and regulatory complexities. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving technological advancements, policy reforms, and industry-wide collaboration. Future research should focus on refining AI-driven autonomous decision-making models, optimizing edge computing and 6G networks for immersive applications, and developing standardized frameworks for interoperability across metaverse ecosystems.

Ultimately, metaverse-integrated digital twins have the potential to revolutionize global supply chains by fostering resilience, agility, and efficiency in an increasingly volatile world. As organizations continue to navigate complex supply chain disruptions, embracing this technology will be essential for achieving long-term sustainability and competitiveness.

## Acknowledgement

The authors acknowledge the efforts of the management of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Akwa in stimulating this research.

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