Designing an Investment Attraction Model in the Production Sector with a Resistive Economy Approach and Emphasis on Developing Production Value Chains

This study aims to identify and structurally analyze the key factors influencing targeted investment attraction in Iran’s production sector within the framework of the Resistance Economy approach, with a particular emphasis on the role of value chains. A mixed-methods (qualitative–quantitative) research design was employed. In the qualitative phase, key factors were identified and screened through the Fuzzy Delphi technique based on the opinions of 15 experts in economics, value chain management, and investment studies. In the quantitative phase, the interrelationships among the factors, as well as their levels of influence and dependence, were analyzed using the MICMAC structural analysis method. The findings revealed that supply chain digitalization, strengthening regional cooperation and economic integration, improving logistics and transportation infrastructure, and the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies are among the most influential driving and strategic factors. Furthermore, the creation of industrial clusters and the enhancement of industrial linkages emerged as a linkage variable with the highest levels of influence and dependence. The MICMAC matrix density was calculated at 86.42%, indicating strong and structured relationships among the research variables. In addition, factors such as cross-sectoral upgrading of value chains, creating locational advantages through logistics infrastructure development, the use of artificial intelligence in value chain optimization, and improved access to financing and venture capital were identified as highly dependent variables. The results suggest that policymakers seeking to attract productive investment and enhance economic resilience should focus on strengthening the main driving factors, particularly in the areas of technology, logistics infrastructure, and institutional stability. By providing a structural framework of the relationships among these factors, this study offers a basis for designing targeted policies aimed at achieving the objectives of the Resistance Economy.