Conflict management in agribusiness: Negotiation, mediation, and arbitration in commercial disputes

Abstract

Scientific novelty and originality: The originality of the research lies in integrating contractual risk management, organisational governance and dispute-resolution mechanisms within a strategic approach adapted to the specific characteristics of agribusiness. Its principal contribution is the development of SACMF as a managerial framework connecting contractual prevention, early identification of conflict signals, structured assessment, controlled escalation, selection of an appropriate dispute-resolution mechanism, implementation of outcomes and organisational learning. The framework is informed by theoretical analysis and by a diagnostic survey of 100 export-oriented agribusiness companies in the Republic of Moldova. Theoretical significance: The research integrates perspectives from strategic management, risk management, corporate governance, contractual relationship management and alternative dispute resolution. It approaches commercial conflict not solely as a legal event, but as a managerial risk capable of generating economic, operational and relational consequences throughout the agri-food value chain. Practical value: The proposed SACMF provides agribusiness enterprises with a structured approach to preventing and managing commercial conflicts through early identification, conflict assessment, defined responsibilities and escalation levels, appropriate mechanism selection, outcome monitoring and organisational learning. It is particularly relevant to producers, exporters, processors, cooperatives and SMEs operating in the Republic of Moldova and in international agri-food markets.