Supply Chain Integration in International EPC Projects under the Belt and Road Initiative: Enhancing Procurement Efficiency and Stakeholder Collaboration

This study examines significant research deficiencies in the procurement management difficulties encountered by Chinese contractors in international EPC projects within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This research addresses: 1) the distinct procurement inefficiencies (e.g., communication delays, material shortages) faced by Chinese contractors in global projects; 2) the impact of supply chain integration on improving procurement performance in international EPC projects; 3) the application of social network analysis (SNA) to investigate inter-organizational relationships in procurement management; and 4) the influence of stakeholder collaboration on optimizing procurement processes. The results indicate that efficient supply chain integration markedly enhances procurement efficiency, minimizes delays, and decreases costs. The study indicates that robust collaboration and communication across stakeholders, namely contractors, suppliers, subcontractors, and designers—are essential for lowering procurement risks and facilitating seamless project execution. Social network analysis underscores the significance of principal stakeholders and their interrelations in enhancing procurement results, asserting that effectively coordinated networks facilitate superior resource allocation and risk management. Moreover, case studies indicate that Chinese contractors utilize tactics such just-in-time inventory management, supplier relationship management, and digital procurement platforms to mitigate supply chain risks and improve procurement performance. The study highlights that supply chain integration, along with robust stakeholder collaboration, reduces inefficiencies and offers a competitive edge for Chinese contractors in the global EPC industry.