Pregledni rad
https://doi.org/10.38190/ope.16.1.2
Regulatory compliance as a driver of competitiveness: the role of CE certification in the internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises
Davor Grgurević
*
Viktorija Adamić Ciglar
orcid.org/0009-0007-6466-3099
Branimir Buntak
orcid.org/0000-0003-4676-8384
* Dopisni autor.
Sažetak
CE certification represents a formal prerequisite for access
to the European Union’s single market; however, in the practice of
small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it is often perceived solely
as a regulatory cost. The aim of this paper is to analyse regulatory
compliance as a potential source of competitive advantage and
to present CE certification as a strategic instrument for business
internationalization. Building on the concepts of compliance
management and quality infrastructure, the paper develops a
methodological framework that integrates regulatory requirements
into product development processes, risk management, and quality
management practices. Particular emphasis is placed on the role
of CE certification in reducing market risk, strengthening corporate
reputation, and increasing customer trust. The analysis indicates
that, through a systematic approach, regulatory compliance can be
transformed from an administrative obligation into an intangible asset
of the enterprise. Finally, the paper highlights the need to strengthen
regulatory competencies within entrepreneurship education in order
to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs in the EU market.
Ključne riječi
regulatory compliance; CE certification; SME competitiveness; business internationalization; quality infrastructure
Hrčak ID:
347799
URI
Datum izdavanja:
12.6.2026.
Posjeta: 0 *