Amid rising environmental concerns, Industry 4.0 and Blockchain technology (BCT) are transforming circular economy (CE) practices and prevailing business models. Recognize the same; this study examines the role of blockchain technology in circular CE practices; and their impact on eco-environmental performance, which influences organizational performance. The study collects data from 404 enterprises located in Chinese and Pakistani territories, involved in cross-border supply chain operations. Both countries’ sample has great relevance due to the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which possess several positive fallouts in terms of technology spillovers across firms. Using the PLS-SEM modeling framework, this study provides three key findings. First, BCT significantly improves the circular economy practices (circular procurement, circular design, recycling, and re-manufacturing). Second, CE practices help improve firms’ environmental performance and stimulate their financial performance. Third, higher eco-environmental performance significantly boosts organizational performance. This study set-out the foundations for participating countries/firms that simultaneously achieve financial and sustainable goals by integrating blockchain technology in circular economy practices.

Professor Syed A. Rehman Khan completed his postdoctoral fellowship at Tsinghua University. Prof. Khan is currently associated with Business Research and Consultancy Limited in the United Kingdom. Professor Khan has consistently received recognition as one of the world's top 2% highly cited scholar. His impressive portfolio includes nearly 200 high-level academic research articles and 11 published academic books related to business administration, circular economy, and green practices in business operations. Additionally, he has led numerous research funding projects. Professor Khan is a sought-after keynote speaker, invited speaker, and conference chair, having participated in over 70 international academic conferences. His expertise and influence in the field are unparalleled.