The combination of technologies of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) with manufacturing practices could be really promising in improving sustainable supply chain performance (SSCP). Yet, little is known about how these technologies directly relate to sustainability—and more specifically in emerging markets. The mediating effect of Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) practices between I4.0 technologies and SSCP in the Iraqi manufacturing sector has also not been investigated thus far. Based on data from 213 manufacturing firms and PLS-SEM, this study empirically explains the positive influence of I4.0 technologies towards SSCM practices as well SSCP. Findings have revealed that SSCM practices mediate symbiosis between I4.0 and SSCP, suggesting that digital technologies enhance performance, but improved results are achieved when they integrate with sustainable practice This paper provides valuable insights on the challenges related to I4.0 adoption in a novel context, thus contributing to scant available literature of industry. Researchers have paid little attention adopting this trend over Iraq or other emerging markets industrial settings. The results can also be useful for industry partners to help facilitate in the alignment of technological adoption with sustainability practice, so that they may effectively reap current and future environmental, economic as well social benefits from innovation use practices adopted by firms.