International Standardization of Cold Chain Logistics Service

Abstract

In ASEAN countries, the strong need to build a cold chain is backed by the consumers' willingness to buy fresh and safe food and by the globalization of the food supply chain. By definition, the cold chain should be managed carefully in terms of temperature control. The temperature of cold stores or containers used in logistics operations is expected to be monitored and recorded. Unfortunately, however, not all entities involved in the logistics keep the same service level throughout the cold chain in the region. This paper introduces international standardization projects led by Japan on both BtoB and BtoC cold chain logistics services; “ASEAN-Japan Guidelines on Cold Chain Logistics” and “ISO Refrigerated Parcel Delivery Services.” We conclude that the standardization and its diffusion would improve the service level of cold chain logistics in ASEAN countries, which in turn would create new business opportunities, bringing benefits to the stakeholders along the supply chain and logistics service providers as well.