Regulatory compliance as a driver of competitiveness: the role of CE certification in the internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises

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.