Sustainable supply chain collaboration in emerging markets: core bibliometric analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic examination of the fragmented and underexplored field of sustainable supply chain collaboration (SSCC) in emerging markets. The aim is to clarify conceptual ambiguities, map the theoretical underpinnings and propose an integrative framework that explains how collaborative capabilities evolve to enable sustainability outcomes in institutionally complex environments. Design/methodology/approach A hybrid bibliometric and systematic review approach was used, drawing on the Scopus database. Co-citation and keyword co-occurrence analyses in VOSviewer revealed the field’s knowledge base, whilst an interpretive thematic analysis of seminal works deepened the understanding of the relational and institutional mechanisms that shape SSCC in emerging economies. Findings The analysis identified four dominant theoretical lenses underpinning SSCC – resource-based view, relational view, stakeholder theory and dynamic capabilities – with the relational view offering explanatory power in institutionally weak contexts. This study revealed five evolutionary stages of collaboration: ESG-based supplier selection, supplier monitoring, knowledge sharing and development, strategic supplier collaboration and multi-stakeholder engagement. Digital technologies and relational governance emerge as key enablers across these stages. Originality/value The advancement of theoretical and practical understanding by integrating fragmented perspectives into a coherent framework tailored to emerging-market realities. A pragmatic demonstration of how collaboration capabilities develop through trust, knowledge exchange and effective governance, offering scholars a structured foundation for future research and providing managers and policymakers with actionable pathways to strengthen sustainable collaboration within complex supply networks.