https://doi.org/10.53964/mem.2023013

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ModernEconomy and Management
Open Access

ISSN 2790-3214 (Online)

MiniReview
Development of Cold Chain Logistics for China’s Fresh E-commerce in Post-Epidemic
Era
Xiuhui Sun1, Yamei Yuan1, Guozhen Zhang1, Liye Tian1, Huanxin Sun1, Xinghua Wang1*
1

College of Agricultural Economics and Management, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, Shanxi
Province, China*

Correspondence to: Xinghua Wang, PhD, Associate Professor, College of Agricultural Economics andManagement, Shanxi Agricultural University, 81 Longcheng Dajie, Taiyuan, 030031, Shanxi Province, China;
Email: sxauwxh@sxau.edu.cn
Received: August 11, 2023 Revised: September 11, 2023 Accepted: October 19, 2023 Published: December 22, 2023

Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic presented both unprecedented challenges and remarkable
opportunities for China’s fresh food e-commerce industry. This dynamic landscape has underscoredthe critical importance of advancing cold chain logistics within this industry. Drawing upon establishedsupply chain management theories, this paper identifies key areas for enhancement in the realm ofcold chain logistics for fresh e-commerce. Through a comprehensive review of existing literatureand current research findings, this study delves into the current state of cold chain logistics for fresh
e-commerce, scrutinizing prevalent issues and deriving significant insights. The paper advocates forenterprises to prioritize the integration of cutting-edge technologies, enabling the creation of intelligent
logistics systems. Additionally, it emphasizes the implementation of lean supply chain management
practices to drive holistic regional development. Furthermore, leveraging policy support for the
expeditious establishment of industry standards and protocols is crucial. The conclusions drawn fromthis research hold tangible implications for understanding the present landscape of cold chain logistics
in fresh e-commerce, offering a theoretical and practical foundation to propel its future development.
Keywords: fresh e-commerce, cold chain logistics, post-epidemic era, smart logistics
Citation: Sun X, Yuan Y, Zhang G, Tian L, Sun H, Wang X. Development of Cold Chain Logistics for China’s Fresh E-commercein Post-Epidemic Era. Mod Econ Manag, 2023; 2: 13. DOI: 10.53964/mem.2023013.

1 INTRODUCTION
Fresh e-commerce refers to the use of Internet platforms
for the direct sale of fresh products to customers[1].
Aligned with the general trend of e-commerce, fresh foode-commerce embodies the essence of online commercial
transactions. The year 2012 is widely recognized as theinaugural year of the development of fresh food e-commercein China. With the development of the economy and society

and the improvement of residents’ consumption level, thedemand for fresh food has shifted towards considerations ofdiversity, safety, and sustainability.
Cold chain logistics plays a key and decisive role inthe development of fresh e-commerce, constituting its
fundamental underpinning. The cold chain logistics industry
refers to the transportation and warehousing of goods that

Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This open-access article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License(https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), which permits unrestricted use, sharing, adaptation, distribution, and reproduction in any
medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

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necessitate specific temperature, humidity, and environmental
conditions throughout the logistics process[2]. With the
improvement of China’s social economy and consumption
level, the demand for sectors that hinge on temperature sensitive goods - such as food, medicine, and cosmetics continues to surge, accelerating the steady growth of the cold
chain logistics industry. In 1980, the National Transportation
Association of the United States introduced the concept of
the “cold chain”, setting forth stringent requirements fortemperature range, seamless transportation links, heightened
service efficiency, rigorous hygiene management, andsteadfast quality and safety standards[3]. The outbreakof COVID-19 in late 2019 prompted a surge in demand
for fresh produce through contactless channels such as
e-commerce, driven by consumers’ heightened focus onfood safety and health. This surge, in turn, has catalyzed an
exponential rise in the demand for cold chain services andthe equitable allocation of resources within the cold chain
industry. In recent years, China’s State Council, alongside
local governments and pertinent industry associations, hasconsistently issued documents pertinent to the cold chain
industry. However, compared with the rapidly developing
fresh e-commerce landscape, the pace of development in
China’s cold chain logistics sector currently lags. To betteralign with the evolving demands of fresh e-commerce, anurgent transformation and upgrade of cold chain logistics for
fresh products is imperative.
This article aims to investigate the current status andaddress development challenges in cold chain logistics for
fresh e-commerce through the analysis of supply chain
management theories. Beginning with an examination of thehistorical context of fresh food e-commerce and its intricate
connection with cold chain logistics, we will delineate
the research inquiries that have emerged. Employing a
combination of literature review and real-world case studies,
we will analyze and discuss these questions, ultimately
proposing a series of pragmatic solutions. Through combing
the relevant research, it becomes evident that cold chain
logistics is crucial to the development of fresh e-commerce.
However, significant issues persist in the domains of largescale cold chain operations, facility utilization, standard
systematization, and informatization. In response tothese challenges, we put forward relevant suggestions to
optimize the cold chain logistics path of China’s fresh foode-commerce cold chain logistics.
This article conducts thorough research on the current
state of cold chain logistics for fresh e-commerce. It
offers viable adjustments and suggestions grounded insupply chain management principles. These encompass
the integration of cutting - edge technologies to establish
intelligent logistics, the implementation of lean supply
chain management practices, the promotion of regional
coordinated development, and the pursuit of standardizationand normalization. These recommendations hold theInnovation Forever Publishing Grouppotential to optimize cold chain logistics operations,
reduce associated costs, enhance efficiency, and bolster
the sustainable evolution of the supply chain. It is hopedthat this paper will serve as a valuable reference for bothacademic research and practitioners in the field of business
management.
2 LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Status Quo of Research
In the realm of fresh food e-commerce, cold chain logistics
emerges as a crucial and determining factor, forming the
bedrock for the advancement of the entire sector[4]. Throughthe analysis of existing market demand data, researchers
have used network simulation methods to predict the future
five-year demand for cold chain logistics in China’s fresh
agricultural products[5]. The resulting conclusion underscores
the development potential within the domain of cold chain
logistics. In the post-pandemic era, China’s logistics industry
is poised for rapid evolution propelled by three key drivers,
namely, market forces, technological advancements, andpolicy shifts. This transformation is anticipated to catalyze
significant shifts in five pivotal dimensions - namely, logistics
demand, supply, infrastructure, informatization, and overall
industry development[6].
However, despite its potential, the development of cold
chain logistics still faces many challenges[7]. Currently,
obstacles hindering the development of cold chain
logistics in China include uneven distribution of cold chain
infrastructure, insufficient supporting facilities, suboptimal
informatization level, limited scale of enterprises, shortages
in professional expertise and financial resources, and a
deficiency in comprehensive regulatory frameworks[8]. At amacroscopic level, the slow and incomplete progression ofcold chain scaling processes has led to a mismatch between
the development speed of cold chain logistics and the fresh
food e-commerce sector. From a more granular perspective,
opportunities abound for enhancing innovation capacity,
information coordination proficiency, and overall industry
awareness of business entities[9]. The cold chain logistics
industry still needs more standardized and refined industry
standards.
To address these issues, scholars have put forward targetedsuggestions for further developing and improving cold
chain logistics for fresh food e-commerce from multiple
perspectives. These encompass logistics information
systems, cold chain logistics equipment, standard systems,
and technology. Strengthening food traceability can beachieved through measures such as transportation monitoring
platform construction, enhanced coordination and control
by management departments, and improved information
intelligence levels[10]. Cold chain enterprises should focus
on technological applications and diversification of productcategories, while simultaneously prioritizing the construction
and optimization of cold chain logistics facilities to reduce

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https://doi.org/10.53964/mem.2023013[11]energy consumption and costs . Simultaneously, emphasis
is placed on advancing the cold chain scaling process in thecontext of rapid e-commerce development, along with thenecessity of establishing a standard system and increasing
the level of marketization. Achieving the dual goals of low
carbon footprint and intelligent innovation necessitatescollaboration between national regulatory agencies,
industries, consumers, and interdisciplinary experts[12]. The
industry’s overall development is promoted through the dual
impetus of policy support and industry norms.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted
the importance of establishing high-quality cold chain
logistics for fresh food e-commerce. In the subsequent
section, we review international studies on the developmentof cold chain logistics for fresh food e-commerce in the postpandemic era. Through an examination of the pandemic’s
influence on global supply chains, it is underscored thatenhancing supply chain resilience stands as a pivotal
driving force in mitigating vulnerability during tumultuous
periods[13]. Additionally, attention to improved strategies forrelocation and reshoring in the post-pandemic era is posited
to lead to a reduction in the length of global supply chains[14].
In terms of technology, the application of advanced
technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, holds
significant importance[15]. Numerous studies underscorethe substantial potential of technologies like artificial
intelligence in propelling the development of logistics.
Researchers advocate for the utilization of Internet of Things(IoT) technology to implement lean management, thereby
augmenting the efficiency of logistics processes. This
involves the integration of technologies such as blockchain,robotics, big data analysis, and cloud computing in the
management of cold chain logistics[16]. For example, AIbased predictive analytics exhibit promise in optimizing
inventory management, curbing waste, and enhancing
overall supply chain efficiency[17]. Additionally, attention
has been directed towards initiatives such as establishing
an IoT-driven multi-level agricultural food supply chain,
refining ant colony optimization algorithms for cold
chain distribution route optimization, and delving into theintricacies of cold chain logistics distribution[18].
Furthermore, the research places substantial emphasison consumer-oriented approaches[19]. Investigations into
the elasticity effects of food consumption behavior during
the COVID-19 period in Italy highlight the critical role
played by personalized marketing strategies, reliable
delivery services, and comprehensive product informationin cultivating consumer trust and satisfaction[20]. The
significance of home delivery services in aiding vulnerable
consumers in bridging the digital divide, while also affording
opportunities for small-scale retailers and producers, isunderscored[21]. An evaluation framework for food cold
chain logistics enterprises is established, encompassing four

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crucial facets: financial management, cold chain logistics
processes, development capabilities, and customer service.
In terms of sustainable development of global supply
chains, there have been recommendations for optimizing
logistics systems. The importance of establishing sustainable
and resilient food systems for the stability and longevityof food supply chains is underscored. Additionally,
cooperative efforts among cold chain enterprises are viewed
as a contributing factor to the sustained developmentof the industry in the post-pandemic era. Exploring thedevelopment path of agricultural product cold chain logistics
in a low-carbon environment helps promote the sustainable
development of food cold chains, particularly in light ofglobal warming challenges[22].
In summary, the findings of these studies emphasize thepivotal roles of advanced technology, robust infrastructure,
data analysis, and consumer-centric approaches. These
insights offer valuable guidance for the Chinese government,
logistics providers, and e-commerce platform-relatedcompanies to enhance the efficiency, safety, and reliability of
China’s cold chain logistics system. This, in turn, facilitates
the timely and precise delivery of fresh, high-quality food to
consumers.
2.2 Summary of the Literature Review
Comprehensive literature reviews conducted by both
domestic and international scholars have yielded a wealthof research on cold chain logistics for fresh e-commerce.
Within this body of work, the predominant focus lies on
the study of fresh product packaging[23], transportation,and related demand characteristics as well as consumer
preferences. Many macro-level analyses draw from classic
e-commerce enterprise cases as illustrative evidence.
Additionally, some scholars have delved into optimizing
cold chain transportation routes[24], demand forecasting,and cost control. A majority of these studies employ
virtual enterprises as the subjects for model analysis, withsome extending their scope to encompass the selectionof transportation equipment such as refrigerated trucks.
Moreover, a notable subset of scholars has exploredissues pertaining to sustainability and carbon neutrality,
contemplating the ecological sustainability of fresh
e-commerce cold chain logistics. Building upon thisfoundation, our paper seeks to continue, complement,
expand, and innovate upon this existing research.
However, we have identified several notable gaps inthe current body of literature. Firstly, existing studies, both
domestic and international, often lack a systematic analysis
of cold chain logistics, particularly in terms of its macrosystem operation encompassing logistics transportation,
warehousing, distribution, and related links. This deficiency
results in challenges to pinpoint areas for optimization to
reduce the costs associated with cold chain logistics.

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Secondly, there exists a relative paucity of in-depth
research on third-party service platforms within cold
chain logistics. The pivotal role of these platforms in theoverall operation of the cold chain system has been largely
overlooked. The third-party cold chain logistics service
platform has long-term significance for the whole cold chain
system to improve quality and efficiency, reduce cost, andprovide logistics operation guarantees.
Thirdly, while both domestic and international literature
has explored the technical aspects of cold chain logistics
development, there remains room for further examination.
It is evident that advanced cold chain technology plays afundamental role in driving innovation and progress within
the field, offering fresh perspectives on how China’s cold
chain logistics can be better developed to meet the demandsof the fresh produce e-commerce industry.
3 DEVELOPMENT STATUS OF COLD CHAINLOGISTICS FOR FRESH E-COMMERCE
3.1 Information Technology to Enable the Wisdom ofCold Chain Logistics
Big data represents a significant milestone in the ongoing
industrial revolution of information technology, following in
the footsteps of the Internet, IoT, and cloud computing. Its
rapid development has not only improved the coordinationand decision-making capabilities of cold chain logistics
enterprises, hastening the progress of cold chain logistics
informatization, but has also brought personalized andhigh-quality business policies for agricultural products
e-commerce. The adept utilization of technology caneffectively manage cost inputs across the entire cold
chain while meeting the market demand for high-quality
agricultural products.
With the intelligent digitization of cold chain operations,the trajectory towards intelligent cold chain logistics is
set to define the future of the industry[25]. Combined withthe unique characteristics of the fresh product field, andleveraging technologies such as the IoT and big data,
the logistics system’s management decision-making andimplementation capabilities, as well as the overall system’slevel of intelligence, are poised for augmentation[26].
This transformation constitutes a pivotal means for cold
chain logistics enterprises to enhance their differentiation
advantage.
3.2 The Epidemic Has Stimulated the Increasing
Market Demand for Fresh Products
The sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in
2020 precipitated a paradigm shift towards online shoppingand consumption to fulfill fresh food requirements[27].
E-commerce platforms emerged as pivotal channels forindividuals to access fresh produce. As per the CDP2020
China Supply Chain Report, China’s fresh produce

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e-commerce market expanded to 263.84 billion yuan in
2020, reflecting an impressive growth rate of 62.9%.
According to Quest mobile data, the outbreak led to a net
addition of 25.42 million new users in China’s fresh produce
e-commerce sector. This shift towards online consumptionof fresh food, catalyzed by the pandemic, persisted even after
the situation was brought under control. In 1-3 tier cities,
where hourly fresh food e-commerce models predominate,convenience surpasses that of traditional large supermarkets.
In 4-6 tier cities, community group purchases represent a
more cost-effective alternative to conventional sales channels.
Statistics further affirm that 65.4% of Chinese fresh foode-commerce consumers increased their spending in 2021,
with 51.6% allocating higher budgets. Consumer frequency
and expenditure on online fresh food shopping continue toexhibit an upward trajectory.
3.3 The Cold Chain Logistics of Fresh Products Has a
Great Development Trend
Under the unique circumstances of the epidemic, thequality standards for low-temperature preservation anddistribution of fresh products have witnessed a continual
enhancement. China’s cold chain logistics industry has
ushered in its golden period of development[28]. Data show
a substantial surge in China’s cold chain logistics market,
escalating from 331.9 billion yuan in 2019 to 383.2 billion
yuan in 2020, marking a noteworthy 13% year-on-yearincrease. The aggregate demand for cold chain services
surpassed 265 million tons, reflecting a 13.69% yearon-year upswing. In cold chain logistics, the demand
for food cold chain constitutes nearly 90% of the overallrequirement. Referencing Table 1, it becomes evident thatthe demand for the cold chain logistics industry exhibits aconsistent upward trajectory. This underscores the pivotal
role of fresh product cold chains in propelling the holistic
advancement of the cold chain industry.
3.4 Relevant Support Policy System is Gradually
Improving
Since the onset of the epidemic, there has been a
noticeable uptick in the formulation of cold chain policies
across various sectors. In November 2020, the state releaseda policy entitled “Notice on Further Improvement of Cold
Chain Food Traceability Management”. This directive
advocates for bolstering the coordination and interconnectionof relevant departments, with a focus on implementing an
information registration system. Additionally, it emphasizes
the achievement of comprehensive information traceability
for key cold chain foods, spanning from customs importinspection to storage and distribution, production andprocessing, wholesale and retail, as well as food service.
The policy also underscores the establishment of a swift
and precise response mechanism for handling problematic
products.

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Table 1. China’s Total Cold Cain Logistics Demand and Forecast from 2017 to 2022
Year

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

Total demand (tons)

14,75018,87023,30826,50027,46032,450Notes: Source: ASKCI Consulting Co., Ltd. https://www.askci.com/news/chanye/20220427/1713141838531.shtml

In recent years, China’s State Council, along withgovernments at various levels and industry associations,have consistently issued a series of documents related to thecold chain industry. Table 2 provides an overview of somekey documents and their related content released by China
within the past five years. This concerted effort underscores
the nation’s steadfast commitment to advancing thedevelopment of cold chain logistics. It also foreshadowsthat the country will promote the development of cold
chain logistics with greater efforts in the new development
paradigm.
4 DEVELOPMENT OF COLD CHAIN LOGISTICS
FOR FRESH E-COMMERCE
4.1 The Shortcomings of the Cold Chain Logistics
Informatization Process are Obvious
The core of cold chain logistics lies in the precise control
of temperature and real-time monitoring, underscoring
the critical importance of seamless connectivity between
refrigerated containers during transportation and acrossdifferent logistics links. However, significant deficiencies
persist in the realm of tracking and monitoring technology.
Presently, the traceability system for agricultural products’
cold chains cannot cover all upstream and downstream
nodes, rendering real-time personnel supervision and productmonitoring during transportation unattainable. This deficiency
was particularly evident during the COVID-19 epidemic,
where inadequate monitoring of transmission pathways
contributed to widespread transmission. Furthermore,
the integration level within China’s cold chain logistics
industry remains notably low, with a pronounced disparity
in informatization levels across different entities[29]. Data
formats and standard specifications differ between different
companies, and product information at various stages is often
scattered across various departments within supervisory
bodies or cold chain enterprises, hindering seamlessinformation integration. In instances of food transportation
accidents spanning multiple regions, supervisory bodies often
struggle to determine legal responsibilities due to information
gaps, and ensuring the standardization and authenticity of
information is difficult to guarantee.
4.2 Construction Cost of Cold Chain Logistics for Fresh
E-commerce Remains High
According to data from China Cold Chain Logistics
Network, the proportion of using cold chain transportation
facilities for perishable products in China is only 10%20%. The rate of decay for agricultural products is 25%30%, and the average loss rate for fresh produce is above
10%. Notably, the rate of decay for fresh products in China

Innovation Forever Publishing Groupis significantly higher than that of developed countries. In
response to the high cost of cold chain standard packaging,some businesses opt for more budget-friendly alternatives
such as ice cubes and foam boxes for transportation[30].
It is estimated that cold chain disruptions in China cause
the waste of approximately 12 million tons of fruit and
130 million tons of vegetables annually, resulting ineconomic losses exceeding hundreds of billions of yuan.
The costs associated with product damage account for a
staggering 70% of the entire transportation product costs,
markedly surpassing international standards. Moreover,the pandemic has dealt a significant blow to cold chain
logistics enterprises, resulting in substantial human andmaterial resource losses. Data shows that, in 2020, 81.5%of enterprises experienced an increase in labor costs.
The industry’s impaired operational capacity has led tocontinuous losses of enterprises, directly affecting theirsubsequent development and improvement of the system.
4.3 Construction of Cold Chain Logistics and Transportation Network is Not Perfect
The eastern region of China boasts a high level of
economic development, characterized by well-establishedinfrastructure and relatively low entry costs for businesses.
However, the central and western regions are suffering fromsevere aging and lack of technological innovation. These
factors impede local investment attraction and contributeto a notable outflow of skilled labor. Furthermore, theabsence of industry-leading enterprises further hinders
the development of cold chain logistics in these areas.
Inequities in road construction standards across the country
exacerbate the difficulty of extending cold chain supply
chains to remote regions. Additionally, a scarcity ofcomposite talents and individuals capable of coordinating
and orchestrating multi-modal transportation networks also
poses a significant obstacle to supporting the operationsof cold chain enterprises in multi-modal transportation.
Consequently, the regional development divide in China’s
cold chain logistics continues to widen.
Therefore, constructing a comprehensive transportation
network system for cold chain enterprises is becoming
increasingly urgent. The differences in the proportion ofenterprises by region in China are shown in Table 3.
4.4 China’s Policy or Cold Chain Logistics Industry
Support Lacks Precision
In recent years, China has introduced many policies tosupport the development of cold chain logistics. However,most of these policies lack precise support.

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Table 2. Important Policies Documents on the Development of Cold Chain Logistics in China in the
Past Five Years
Year of Promulgation

Agency of Promulgating

File Name

February, 2019

General Office of the State “Opinions on Promoting the HighCouncil, PRC
quality Development of Logistics andPromoting the Formation of a Strong
Domestic Market”

Enterprises are encouraged to innovate
the cold chain logistics infrastructurebusiness model and develop a thirdparty cold chain logistics monitoring
platform.

February, 2020

General Office of the State “Opinions of the CPC Central
Council, PRC
Committee and the State Council on
Grasping the Key Work in the Fieldof “Three Rural Areas” to Ensure theRealization of All-round Moderate
Prosperity on Schedule”

Start the construction project of cold
chain logistics facilities for the storage
and preservation of agricultural
products.

February, 2021

General Office of the State Opinions of the CPC Central
Council, PRC
Committee and the State Council on
Comprehensively Promoting Rural
Revitalization and Accelerating theModernization of Agriculture andRural Areas

Accelerate the implementationof the construction of cold chain
logistics facilities for the storage andpreservation of agricultural products.

November, 2021

National Development
and Reform Commission,
PRC

By 2025, a cold chain logistics networkthat connects the place of origin, covers
urban and rural areas, and connects
domestic and international will be
initially formed.

February, 2022

General Office of the State “Opinions of the CPC Central
Council, PRC
Committee and the State Council on
Comprehensively Promoting the Key
Work of Rural Revitalization in 2022”

Promote the extension of the cold
chain logistics service network to rural
areas, and improve the quality andsafety traceability system of the wholeindustrial chain of edible agricultural
products.

February, 2023

General Office of the State “Opinions of the CPC Central
Council, PRC
Committee and the State Council on
Comprehensively Promoting the Key
Work of Rural Revitalization in 2023”

Support the construction of a cold
chain distribution center in the place oforigin. Coordinate the prevention andcontrol of the epidemic and the market
supply of agricultural products.

“14th Five-Year Plan” Cold Chain
Logistics Development Plan

The most representative area of weakness is the First
Kilometer, which constitutes a critical link in the premanagement of cold chain logistics. Firstly, the investment
policies introduced by national and local governments
are not sufficiently precise, failing to provide adequate
guidance and incentives for large e-commerce companies.
Secondly, local governments have an inadequate
understanding of the cold chain industry. Issues suchas poor coordination among different departments andconflicting policies among various government agencies
are common issues. Additionally, there exists a scarcityof specialized talent at the grassroots level in the field of
cold chain logistics. Finally, the government’s efforts toestablish a favorable business environment fall short. The
absence of standardized, scientific, systemic, informationbased, and modern pre-management practices constrains
the traceability of fresh products. In the collaborative efforts
between e-commerce companies, third-party cold chain
service providers, and the grassroots production areas, thegovernment does not offer proactive guidance and support.
Overall, China’s guidance policy system for cold chain

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Content about Cold Chain Logistics

logistics remains incomplete. The industry’s development
requires more precise and powerful policies to provide
support.
5 MEASURES TO IMPROVE COLD CHAINLOGISTICS FOR FRESH E-COMMERCE
5.1 Build a Smart Cold Chain Service Platform Driven
by the IoT
5.1.1 System Design of Smart Cold Chain Service
Platform
The intelligent cold chain logistics platform of the IoT
combines a new generation of Things technology withintelligent cold chain technology to create a system that
can achieve cold chain logistics management[31]. With
stable technical support spanning from sensors to IoT
devices, the platform ensures the reliability and stability of
IoT operations[32]. Its overarching goal is to interconnect
enterprises across different facets of cold chaintransportation, forging a seamless continuum from origin
to sales. It aims to promote the industry standardizationof cold chain logistics, the standardization of cold chain
supervision, and the integrity of information traceability.

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Table 3. Distribution of Cold Chain Logistics Enterprises in China in 2021
Area

Proportion of the Number of Enterprises

Area

Proportion of the Number of Enterprises

East China Region

32%

Central China

9%North China

17%

Northwest Territories

8%South China

16%

Northeast China

8%Southwest Region

10%

Notes: Source: China Cold Chain Logistics Alliance. http://www.lenglianwuliu.org.cn/menu/details.html?menuId=78

5.1.2 Design of the Technical Architecture of Smart Cold
Chain Logistics Platform
According to the hierarchical structure of the IoT,
the architecture of the platform is as follows: First is thesensor perception layer. At this foundational layer, theplatform achieves comprehensive monitoring of key
indicators throughout the cold chain logistics process.
This is accomplished by installing temperature andhumidity sensors and employing sensing technologies
such as Web GIS. Additionally, technologies such as
RFID and Wireless Sensor Networks ensure that the key
parameters of these fresh product environments meet
specified requirements, with data subsequently uploaded
to the cloud[33]. This layer also enables remote viewing
and monitoring of transport vehicles, facilitating the
optimization of distribution paths.
The second is the cloud processing layer. Responsible fortransmitting data collected by the sensor perception layer tothe cloud through the IoT protocols, the cloud processing
layer handles data processing and analysis. Cloudcomputing and big data analysis technologies are leveraged
to provide real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity,transportation speed, and other pertinent transportation
environment parameters for fresh products. Based on these
data, the platform can make corresponding adjustments
and offer prediction, early warning, and traceability query
functions, which can make cold chain logistics more
intelligent.
Third is the mobile application layer. Through integration
with mobile applications and e-commerce platforms, thislayer facilitates end-to-end visualization and streamlined
services such as online ordering, payment, and distribution.
It enables real-time supervision of the entire process from fresh product harvesting to pre-cooling treatment,
packaging, and transportation - via instantaneous informationtransmission, thereby ensuring effective data collection
and traceability[34]. It can also provide consumers with APP
applications to view the transportation process of fresh
products in real-time, which is convenient for consumers
to have a clearer understanding of the quality, safety, andtransportation mode of fresh products[35].
5.1.3 Design of Emergency Dispatch Mechanism
The smart cold chain service platform collects

Innovation Forever Publishing Groupand compiles epidemic-related data, facilitating thecomprehensive analysis and evaluation of risk statuses
within logistics networks. Each cargo’s receiving, sending,storage, and transportation routes are diligently recorded,
providing a complete and traceable record for emergency
response. Besides, the platform maintains constantcommunication with the deployment center, ensuringreal-time updates on material demand and affected area
information. Importantly, the platform possesses thecapability to craft judicious distribution paths and methods
to mitigate the risk of cross-infection.
The platform’s real-time monitoring extends to thehealth status of delivery vehicle drivers. In the event thatan employee detects a suspected disease, the platform
promptly notifies the relevant departments and initiates
infectious disease screening[36]. Leveraging an intelligent
communication system, the platform disseminates
epidemic-related information to customers and employees,
safeguarding their health and well-being. At the sametime, stringent measures are implemented to prioritize
information security, guarding against both inadvertent
disclosures and malicious cyber threats.
5.2 Implement Lean Management of Cold Chain
Supply Chain
5.2.1 Use Modern Warehousing Technology to Optimize
Inventory Management
Fresh cold chain enterprises can optimize theexisting cold chain warehousing system and update theintelligent warehousing technology and system throughthe intelligent cold chain platform. It can also realize an
efficient and cost-effective warehousing operation mode.
By using historical sales data, consumer purchasing
patterns, and current market trends provided by theplatform, enterprises can accurately predict future market
demand, enabling them to formulate well-grounded
procurement plans and implement effective inventory
management strategies.
At the same time, the real-time monitoring systemprovided by the platform can help fresh cold chain
enterprises to proactively manage their inventory, mitigating
the risk of excessive backlog. This streamlined approachcurtails inventory costs and ensures the consistent quality
and supply of fresh products[37].

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5.2.2 Use Big Data to Optimize the Cold Chain Logistics
Path
The staff needs to comprehensively consider theattributes of the goods, customer needs and other factors
and choose the best choice from a variety of transportation
modes[38]. The platform employs relevant big data to drafttransportation route plans tailored to different logistics
needs. Additionally, it integrates a network system tomonitor the real-time traffic status of the selected routes.
Staff members can adjust the transportation route andreasonably arrange vehicles and distribution routes
according to the real-time feedback of logistics andtransportation services[39]. This approach minimizes goods
transshipment, reduces transportation cost losses, andmaximizes the efficiency of logistics transportation.
5.2.3 Focus on the Visualization of Temperature Control
Monitoring Throughout the Whole Process
In the process of cold chain logistics transportation
services for fresh products, the most effective
intelligent technology should be selected for controlling
temperature throughout the entire process, aligning withthe specific needs of cold chain logistics. For example,
temperature sensors should be strategically installedat every juncture of the cold chain logistics, ensuringcontinuous temperature monitoring[40]. By transmitting
temperature data to the cloud, the regulatory department
can conduct real-time assessments of the temperature
variations within the entire cold chain logistics. Thisguarantees the safety and stability of fresh products
throughout transportation and minimizes the loss rate.
Ultimately, the adoption of such technologies enhances
the quality and efficiency of cold chain logistics services.
5.3 Improve the Coordination and Allocation Mechanism of Cold Chain Infrastructure
5.3.1 Improve the Regional Coordination of Cold Chain
Infrastructure Construction
Cold chain enterprises can make full use of theadvantages of lower land prices, reduced labor costs, andpolicy support in the central and western regions. By
increasing investments in local cold chain infrastructure andfostering the development of distinctive cold chain industry
chains, enterprises can capitalize on the opportunities
these regions offer. Local governments can promote thecoordination of resources in the construction of cold chain
logistics infrastructure through agreements, cooperative
mergers, and acquisitions. This collaborative approachenables resource optimization and mutual benefits. It
narrows the gap in the regional development level of cold
chain logistics in China and enables enterprises to form
agglomeration benefits and scale advantages.
5.3.2 Establish a Multimodal Transport System for Cold
Chain Logistics
The formation of a cold chain logistics multimodal

Innovation Forever Publishing Grouptransport system is aimed at maximizing the advantagesof various transportation modes and promoting theirseamless integration [41]. Through innovation, it isnecessary to accelerate the formation of a fresh cold
chain multimodal transport system covering roads,
railways and other ways. Cold chain enterprises should
strategically plan transportation modes, enhance thecoordination of operational information, and facilitate
capacity arrangements among various transportation
modes. This proactive approach includes optimizing
and adjusting the transportation structure, ultimatelytransitioning toward the establishment of an intermodaland multimodal transport system.
5.3.3 Strengthen the Informatization Collaboration
between Cold Chain Logistics Enterprises
To facilitate logistics information sharing, cold chain
logistics enterprises can establish a common digitalplatform or participate in a cold chain enterprise alliance.
Enterprises can open and share their spare equipment
resources or build common infrastructure according
to the needs of their peers on the platform. They canalso strengthen academic exchanges and professional
cooperation between regions to jointly study technicalissues and facility innovation. By adopting thesemeasures, enterprises can achieve mutual assistanceand mutual benefit, ultimately realizing the objectiveof operating cold chain logistics with high efficiency
and low costs. High-precision information transmission
and sharing are paramount in ensuring the seamless
circulation of the entire cold chain logistics industry
chain.
5.4 Strengthen the Governmental Systematic Planningof Cold Chain Logistics
The first is to optimize the cold chain processing ofstorage links. The government should allocate special
funds to incentivize the construction of warehouses andactively promote the upgrading of cold chain equipment
and facilities. Streamlining the cold storage declaration
audit process and expediting feedback on results areimperative steps to enhance the efficiency of storage
operations.
The next step involves the integration of transportation
resources and the enhancement of transportation standards.
Firstly, the government should take the lead in driving
technological innovation and providing robust scientificand technological support. Relevant departments shouldcollaborate with research institutes and cold-chain logistics
enterprises to spearhead technological advancements.
This includes the development of large-scale refrigerated
transportation equipment and the establishment of astandardized insulation transportation system. Secondly,
third-party logistics enterprises should actively participate
in the construction of a government-planned public service

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https://doi.org/10.53964/mem.2023013
cold chain logistics park. Such a park would serve as a multifunctional facility encompassing warehousing, distribution,and transportation. In particular, the government should pay
attention to the construction of cold chain logistics parks for
agricultural products in the central and western regions toregulate the contradiction between supply and demand.
Furthermore, the government should take on the roleof providing policy guidance and regulation to ensure
the effective operation of third-party cold chain logistics
enterprises. These third-party logistics enterprises form
the backbone of cold chain logistics market competition.
The government should actively guide and accelerate theentry of third-party logistics enterprises and improve themarketization of cold chain logistics. Then, the government
and e-commerce enterprises jointly build a rural supply andmarketing integration platform. This platform can boost thelevel of industrialization for fresh products and promotea higher degree of supply and marketing integration.
Ultimately, this initiative will lead to improved overallplanning and integration of the upstream and downstreamof cold chain logistics.
6 DISCUSSION
Based on the relevant theories of supply chain
management and existing literature, this study identifies key
areas for improvement in the development of cold chain
logistics for fresh e-commerce. However, it is importantto acknowledge the constraints of this study, including
limited research capacity, resource availability, and data
accessibility. These factors have influenced the following
aspects that warrant further development and enhancement.
Limited by research ability and objective conditions,this study cannot examine the level of business flow,
capital flow and knowledge flow in each supply chain. The
study relies on publicly available information from nodeenterprises and industry sources. Nevertheless, to ensure
the accuracy and integrity of data, future research should
prioritize extensive investigations and data collection tovalidate findings.

partners, recognizing their significant impact on thedevelopment of fresh e-commerce enterprises.
In summary, the exploration of challenges and proposedsolutions in the development of fresh agricultural products
and e-commerce cold chain logistics in China is an ongoingprocess. To further enhance the competitiveness of theindustry and related enterprises, there is a critical need fordeeper theoretical research, as well as empirical studies
conducted on a broader scale. This will provide invaluable
insights for China’s fresh cold chain logistics industry tonavigate and thrive in this dynamic landscape.
7 CONCLUSION
This study underscores the exceptional growthpotential of cold chain logistics for fresh e-commercein China. The surge in market demand has catalyzed
rapid innovation and advancement to meet evolving
consumer needs. Concurrently, the rapid development ofscience and technology provides a wealth of resources
to drive progress, while robust government attention
fosters a stable and conducive environment for cold chain
logistics development. However, this study also unveils
the challenges behind the opportunities. The limited
informatization of China’s cold chain logistics is a key
constraint to break through its own development, impeding
its full-scale potential. The high cost associated with fresh
cold chain operations stands as a formidable barrier toovercome. Achieving regional infrastructure equilibrium
is pivotal for extending the coverage of fresh productcold chain logistics across the nation. Furthermore, theprecision and execution of policies play a decisive role instandardizing the fresh cold chain logistics industry. These
perspectives are addressed comprehensively in this study.

Due to the particularity of data during the epidemic
period and the influence of researchers’ own conditions,this paper chooses to combine the examples of some typicalfresh food e-commerce enterprises for research, and at thesame time takes a large number of research results in thesame field at home and abroad as the theoretical basis. To
enhance the practical applicability of research conclusions,future studies should aim to incorporate a wider range ofcases and conduct more comprehensive analyses.

To effectively enhance China’s fresh e-commerce cold
chain logistics, a series of strategic measures are imperative.
We propose the following recommendations for both fresh
cold chain enterprises and the government:(1) Building an intelligent cold chain service platform
driven by the IoT.
(2) Implement lean management in the practical cold
chain supply chain using modern technology.
(3) Improving regional coordination of cold chain
infrastructure construction.
(4) Strengthening the systematic planning of cold chain
logistics for government.
(5) Integrating the above measures with otherestablished cold chain improvement initiatives, significantly
contributing to the continued improvement of cold chain
logistics for China’s fresh e-commerce.

This study only considers the middle and lower reachesof fresh e-commerce enterprises, without delving into therole and selection of upstream suppliers. Future researchendeavors should expand the scope to encompass upstream

Acknowledgements
This research was funded by 2021 Educational Reformand Innovation Project of Colleges and Universities in
Shanxi Province, grant number J2021228; Educational

Innovation Forever Publishing Group

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https://doi.org/10.53964/mem.2023013
Reform Project of Shanxi Agricultural University,
grant number ZD-202116; 2021 Special Subject on
Educational Evaluation for the 14th Five-Year Plan of
Educational Science in Shanxi Province; grant number
PJ-21067.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declared no conflict of interest.

Abbreviation List
IoT, Internet of Things
[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

[14]

[15]

[16]

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Author Contribution
Conceptualization was conducted by Sun X and Yuan
Y; The original draft preparation was undertaken by
Sun X, Yuan Y, Zhang G, and Tian L; Sun X and Sun H
were responsible for writing, reviewing, and editing themanuscript; Wang X supervised the project and handled
project administration; All authors have read and agreed
to the published version of the manuscript.

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