Legal Compliance of MSMEs with International Product Standards for Consumer Protection in Cross-Border Trade

Abstract

The growth of cross-border trade has opened international market access for Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). However, entering the global market requires compliance with international product standards that function not only as trade technicalities but also as instruments of consumer protection. This article explores how Indonesian MSMEs, especially in the cosmetics sector, respond to the legal obligations imposed by the European Union and the United States regarding labeling, certification (e.g., halal, safety), and toxicology testing. Using a normative-juridical method and a comparative approach, this paper examines how international product standards reflect consumer protection norms and evaluates the extent to which Indonesian MSMEs are legally prepared to comply. Failure to meet these standards may lead to sanctions such as product bans, recalls, or even legal suits. This study argues for a stronger regulatory framework and legal assistance to support MSMEs’ internationalization while ensuring global consumer safety.