ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE COMPETITIVENESS IN THE CASE OF ROMANIAN SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTREPRISES

Recently, it has been noticed that the challenges of sustainable development are felt at different levels - national, regional and at the level of small and medium-sized enterprises. Supporting an economic development on the long run highlights the necessity for an increased degree of competitiveness, which should be the base for enhancing the living standard of its habitants. Regarding the assurance of a sustainable development in Romania, we should take into consideration overcoming disparities separating us from the other EU member states. In this context, the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises is closely connected to a series of topical aspects, such as innovation, environmental and risks prevention, investments in energy-efficient technologies. Energy efficiency, for example, enhances the profit of small and medium-sized enterprises in the short, medium and long term, as it means less energy for the same output, or even for a better one. Considering all mentioned before, adapting in a changing market situation is the key issue for Romanian small and medium-sized enterprises. The Lisbon Agenda, through its objectives, impels the competitiveness and innovation at a new extent, in order to become driving forces of development. Further, this process underpins the New Lisbon Agenda framework, where the emphasis is put on economic development, based on knowledge and innovation. We can state that this strategic paper represents the way to achieve a competitive Europe. Achieving a sustainable competitiveness should be the driving force for Romanian small and medium-sized enterprises. The new market perspectives urge for finding the best practices and means for adaptation.