Pricing decisions in closed-loop supply chains: a game theory perspective through scoping review and bibliometric analysis

This study examines pricing decisions in closed-loop supply chains through the lens of game theory by conducting a scoping review combined with bibliometric analysis (ScoRBA). The objective is to identify research trends, influential journals, leading authors, key institutions, citation patterns, and collaborative networks in this field. A total of 1,602 articles published between 2015 and 2025 were retrieved from the Scopus database and analyzed. The review applies the PAGER framework to ensure a systematic and consistent evaluation of the literature while highlighting opportunities for future investigation. The findings show that game-theoretic models have been widely applied for addressing pricing decisions in closed-loop supply chains, with publications increasing steadily over the past decade. The bibliometric mapping clustered the research into five main themes: (1) game theory and pricing, (2) supply chain management and sustainability, (3) pricing decisions in green product and green supply chain, (4) pricing decisions in e-commerce, and (5) pricing decisions in remanufacturing. This review highlights the integration of game theory, sustainability, and digital transformation in pricing decisions across various supply chain contexts. Beyond examining the five main clusters, this study also investigates the intersections between them, including remanufacturing outsourcing, emission reduction initiatives, and renewable energy investments.