Sustainable development through mega projects: the role of stakeholder perception in the case of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor

Purpose This study aims to examine a research model that links stakeholders’ concerns about sustainable issues (SCSI) in Pakistan, their knowledge, interest and attitude (KIA) toward the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to the economic, social and environmental (ESE) aspects of CPEC and thereby to sustainable development of Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach Through an explanatory sequential mixed design, this study used purposive sampling to select a diverse sample of 135 stakeholders of CPEC. Online data collection was made and analyzed quantitatively initially using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Finally, this study conducted semi-structured interviews to gain a deeper understanding of survey responses. Findings This study found that SCSI in Pakistan, and their KIA about the CPEC have a significant impact on the ESE aspects of CPEC, which in turn have a significant impact on sustainable development of Pakistan. Finally, the social, followed by economic and environmental aspects of CPEC mediate the link 1) between SCSI in Pakistan and sustainable development of Pakistan as well as 2) between KIA about the CPEC and sustainable development of Pakistan. Practical implications Stakeholders’ perceptions of CPEC’s sustainability and its relationship with sustainable development are crucial for governments and policymakers. The findings highlight the critical importance of addressing stakeholders’ concerns and engaging them meaningfully to ensure the success and sustainability of CPEC projects. By doing so, governments and policymakers can foster a more inclusive and effective approach to sustainable development in Pakistan. Originality/value Using an explanatory mixed sequential design, this study developed and tested a novel research model that explores how stakeholders’ perceptions of sustainability issues in Pakistan, along with their KIA toward CPEC, influence its ESE viability as a pathway to sustainable development in the country.