Triggers of Delays in International Projects Using Engineering Procurement and Construction Delivery Methods in the Belt and Road Initiative: Case Study of a High-Speed Railway Projects

Since the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been put in practice by Chinese government, several High-Speed Railways (HSR) have built Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) firms. However, many delays created severe detrimental consequences on progress of most HSR projects. This study sought to explore essence recurring triggers international EPC projects under BRI, a structured questionnaire survey approach was applied compile first-hand dataset from firms working for BRI infrastructure The data were evaluated, Relative Importance Index (RII) adopted assess magnitude important delay triggers. findings suggest that are still susceptible unavoidable global construction In engineering phase, improper management design, unsustainable land acquisition, insufficient use joint venture salient trigger delays. procurement leading causes unsuitable procurement, undervalued cost, inefficient logistics labor materials, planning, unqualified site supervisors, technical standard management, constant payment terms likely phase Five critical groups factors identified this study, which an essential primary contribution body knowledge is helpful contractors BRI.