Izvorni znanstveni članak
https://doi.org/10.7906/indecs.23.6.8
Navigating ESG Compliance in Supply Chains: Risks and Opportunities for Small Open Economies
Ernest Vlacic
; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Economics and Business, Rijeka, Croatia
*
Katarina Djulic
; Metropolitan University, FEFA Faculty, Belgrade, Serbia
Amir Topalović
; Aisma S.R.L., Milan, Italy
* Dopisni autor.
Sažetak
This study examines the impact of the Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD) requirements on companies operating in small open economies, with a specific focus on Environmental Social Governance (ESG) compliance in supply chains. The research also discusses the broader implications of the HREDD impact and its potential to standardise ESG requirements across Europe. By evaluating the risks and opportunities for small open economies, this article provides actionable insights for businesses navigating ESG compliance, emphasising the need for collaborative approaches, technological tools, and policy support to enhance competitiveness in sustainable supply chains. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, semi-structured interviews with key representative companies, and selected case studies, the research explores how Serbian firms adapt to the regulatory requirements imposed by the HREDD regulations. The findings highlight the EU’s role as the country’s most significant trade and investment partner, underscoring the indirect but profound influence of the regulations on exporters, particularly in the automotive, textile, and retail sectors. The study identifies sector-specific challenges in compliance, such as supply chain transparency, risk management, and the costs of adopting ESG standards. A case study illustrates best practices in aligning with the law, while a comparative analysis reveals disparities in compliance burdens across industries.
Ključne riječi
ESG compliance and risks; supply chain; corporate sustainability; small open economies; HREDD
Hrčak ID:
342126
URI
Datum izdavanja:
23.12.2025.
Posjeta: 694 *