Quantum Game-Based Study on the Incentive Mechanism for the Cooperative Distribution of E-Commerce Logistics Alliance

Abstract

Motivating active participation in e-commerce logistics alliances to enhance delivery efficiency and customer satisfaction has long been a societal interest. Leveraging the quantum game theory, this paper develops a model for incentivizing collaboration within these alliances. This model enables theoretical and numerical analysis of members’ strategies and entanglement levels. The findings show that quantum strategies increase members’ profits, achieving Nash equilibriums and Pareto optimal outcomes, outperforming the classical game theory. In addition, the size of quantum entanglement emerges as a critical determinant influencing members’ active participation in collaborative distribution. Strengthening information sharing and aligning interests can enhance entanglement levels among members, making them more inclined to adopt strategies promoting active involvement in collaborative distribution. Moreover, members can adapt their strategies based on the initial entanglement in collaborative distribution, thereby incentivizing participation and reducing ethical risks. In conclusion, through numerical analysis, we present relevant strategies and recommendations for incentivizing collaborative distribution within e-commerce logistics alliances.