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Worldwide Nickel Ore Trade, Its Stability and the Characteristics: A Fresh Policy Analysis

Author

Listed:
  • Algimantas Laurinavicius

    (Department of Finance, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania)

  • Asma Salman

    (College of Business Administration, American University in the Emirates)

  • Mohamed Elsayed Abdelsalam Ghanem

    (PhD Candidate in Finance, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya)

  • Antanas Laurinavicius

    (Department of Finance, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania)

  • Mohammed Ahmar Uddin

    (Department of Finance and Economics, College of Commerce and Business Administration, Dhofar University, Salalah, Dhofar, Oman)

Abstract

[Purpose] The study is conceptualized to examine structural characteristics and the strength of nickel ore network trading from 2011 to 2025, and focuses on studying major nations’ involvement and their risk potential for disruptions in supply. [Design/methodology/approach] Network analysis is utilized to examine the topology of the nickel ore trade network and recognize influential players. Robustness simulations are directed to evaluate the influence of targeted and random disruptions on network stability, with emphasis on vulnerabilities associated with critical nodes. [Findings] The findings reveal that the nickel ore trade network shows a scale-free structure, where a few dominant states exercise disproportionate influence on the trade flows. Simulation findings confirm that disruptions among these key players abruptly decrease network stability, escalate systemic risks, and endanger international supply chains. [Research limitations/implications] The analysis is constrained by data availability and doesn’t encompass informal networks of trade or future policy changes that could transform network structure. [Practical implications] Findings provide actionable policy recommendations for governments and industry stakeholders to design strategies that enhance resilience, diversify trade routes, and ensure a sustainable nickel supply. [Originality/value] The originality of this study lies in the application of network robustness simulations to the global nickel ore trade, offering a novel, evidence-based assessment of systemic risks from targeted disruptions—a dimension underexplored in prior literature. [Relevance to Decision Sciences] This research contributes to the field of Decision Sciences by providing a quantitative framework that supports policymakers and corporate strategists in evaluating supply chain vulnerabilities, anticipating risks, and making informed decisions regarding resource security and international trade policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Algimantas Laurinavicius & Asma Salman & Mohamed Elsayed Abdelsalam Ghanem & Antanas Laurinavicius & Mohammed Ahmar Uddin, 2025. "Worldwide Nickel Ore Trade, Its Stability and the Characteristics: A Fresh Policy Analysis," Advances in Decision Sciences, Asia University, Taiwan, vol. 29(3), pages 85-118, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:aag:wpaper:v:29:y:2025:i:3:p:85-118
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • F14 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Empirical Studies of Trade
    • Q37 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Nonrenewable Resources and Conservation - - - Issues in International Trade
    • L72 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Primary Products and Construction - - - Mining, Extraction, and Refining: Other Nonrenewable Resources
    • C63 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Computational Techniques
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products

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