The present study undertakes a bibliometric analysis and systematic literature review on the adoption of Industry 4.0 in developing and emerging countries. The study assesses the current state of knowledge, the enabling factors and barriers to the adoption of Industry 4.0, and its association with different management approaches. A systematic literature review of 57 relevant papers published between 2011 and 2023 was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The findings reveal that the onset of Industry 4.0 research in these regions is only in 2018, highlighting a significant delay. The study underscores the necessity for enhanced collaboration among diverse stakeholders to foster the adoption of Industry 4.0 in these countries. It also demonstrates that the role of external factors remains to be comprehensively investigated. The study therefore facilitates the exploration of strategies to overcome related challenges and the extent to which emerging technologies are aligned with wider objectives, such as sustainable development. The study provides an agenda to guide future research and practitioners in this area.