Abstract

Background: The pharmaceutical industry's performance in the global economy has been significantly influenced by the increasing competition stemming from globalization, economic liberalization, and the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement. To maintain excellence and sustain competitiveness in the global market, organizations need to integrate Total Quality Management (TQM), Supply Chain Resilience (SCR), Organizational Culture (OC), and sustainability practices into their core objectives. This research aims to investigate the impact of TQM, SCR, and OC on the sustainability and operational performance (OP) of the pharmaceutical industry in Pakistan, and to explore their interlinkages. Methodology: A conceptual framework was developed to test hypotheses based on existing literature. A quantitative research approach was adopted, with data collected through a survey of pharmaceutical professionals across Pakistan using convenient sampling, resulting in 203 completed questionnaires. The research model was tested using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Finding: The results demonstrate that TQM, SCR, and OC have significant positive impacts on both sustainability practices and operational performance. Additionally, sustainability mediates the relationship between TQM and OP, SCR and OP, and OC and OP. These findings contribute to the literature by showing that implementing TQM, SCR, and OC practices can significantly enhance sustainability and operational performance in the pharmaceutical industry. Conclusion: This study is the first to examine the direct and indirect effects of TQM, SCR, and OC on OP, considering the mediating role of sustainability. The insights from this research can guide policymakers and industry leaders in implementing these practices to achieve a competitive advantage in the pharmaceutical sector.