The concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) has long been regarded as a critical approach to addressing the tensions between business and society. However, CSR often remains at the periphery of business operations rather than being embedded at the core. Recent years have witnessed a paradigm shift from CSR to creating shared value (CSV), which strategically aligns social and business objectives to generate mutual benefits. CSV offers a promising framework for construction companies to address societal challenges while driving business growth. Despite its potential, the application of CSV in the construction industry remains underexplored, and strategies must be tailored to the unique dynamics of this sector. This research investigates the integration of CSV into business strategies for Chinese international construction companies (CICCs) by conducting in-depth interviews with top management teams. The findings reveal key challenges, including resistance to change, limited awareness of CSV principles, and the complexity of aligning social impact with business goals. The study also advices potential CSV strategies, such as fostering cross-sector partnerships, leveraging innovative technologies, and embedding sustainability into core operations, to overcome these barriers. The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on CSV by offering industry-specific insights and practical recommendations for CICCs. The findings have significant implications for policymakers, industry leaders, and academics, paving the way for creating long-term value for both business and society.