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Arguments

There is an online platform, TINA (Trade Intelligence and Negotiation Advisor), developed by ESCAP, still under development, but able to provide insights to digital trade provisions, however the platform hasn’t covered digital trade thoroughly yet.

Supporting facts:

• TINA is an online platform developed by ESCAP.

• Despite being under development, the audience mentioned it can be accessed to see its initial capabilities especially its ability to provide insights to digital trade provisions in over 400 agreements.

Topics: TINA, ESCAP, Digital trade

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Countries must start engaging in digital trade agreements in order to keep pace with the global economy

Supporting facts:

• It is suggested that countries take part in multilateral and regional trading partnerships, rather than bilateral ones, in order to avoid creating a ‘noodle bowl’ of agreements.

• A trend of digital economy agreements has been identified, with Singapore cited as a world leader.

Topics: Digital trade, Global economy, Trade agreement

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Report

During the discussion, several crucial points were raised in relation to digital trade. One important aspect is the development of the online platform TINA (Trade Intelligence and Negotiation Advisor) by ESCAP. Although still under development, TINA has the potential to provide valuable insights into digital trade provisions.

However, it has not yet fully covered all aspects of digital trade. Another significant point raised during the discussion was the recommendation for countries to engage in multilateral and regional trading partnerships rather than bilateral agreements. The aim behind this suggestion is to avoid creating a complex network of agreements, often referred to as a “noodle bowl.” The noodle bowl phenomenon can be detrimental to trade as it can create confusion and inefficiencies.

Additionally, it was noted that Singapore is regarded as a global leader in digital economy agreements, highlighting the importance of such partnerships. The effectiveness of non-binding frameworks and provisions on digital trade was also emphasized. According to econometric analysis, these non-binding measures have been shown to positively influence trade engagement.

This finding aligns with the perspectives shared by a colleague from UNCTAD during the discussion. The argument put forth was that non-binding frameworks can contribute to trade engagement and are preferable at present. In conclusion, the discussion highlighted the significance of participating in digital trade agreements to keep pace with the global economy.

The development of TINA as an online platform for digital trade provisions shows promise, although it is still in the process of being fully comprehensive. Engaging in multilateral and regional partnerships, rather than bilateral ones, is recommended to avoid creating a complex web of agreements.

The effectiveness of non-binding frameworks and provisions on digital trade was also recognized, further supporting the importance of these measures in fostering trade engagement. Overall, the discussion provided valuable insights for stakeholders in the field of digital trade.

Arguments

Cambodia is evolving rapidly in building a strong digital economy momentum.

Supporting facts:

• The median age of Cambodia is 25.6 years old, signifying a vibrant youthful demographic.

• Digital technology is helping in growth in many segments of the economy.

Topics: Digital economy, Cambodian demographic

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Adaptation to the new way of engagement is needed.

Topics: Digital economy, Stakeholder engagement

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Chia Ratan emphasizes on the importance of e-commerce in promoting growth.

Topics: E-commerce, Digital trade policy

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On November 25, 2020, under the aegis of the Ministry of Commerce and with the financial backing of the EIF, we launched the e-commerce strategy.

Supporting facts:

• Cambodia Trade Integration Strategy called CTSI 2019 to 2023

• The Royal Government of Cambodia prioritize on the digital economy and the fourth industrial revolution for our rectangular strategy phase four

Topics: e-commerce strategy, EIF, Ministry of Commerce

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Cambodia is a party of number of regional and bilateral agreement.

Supporting facts:

• Cambodian-China free trade agreement

• Cambodia-Korean free trade agreement

• Cambodia-UAE comprehensive economic partnership agreement

Topics: ASEAN e-commerce agreement, regional comprehensive economic partnership, bilateral free trade agreement

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Chia Ratan, stresses the complexity of creating a general department for digital trade, mentioning that it requires a lot of time and preparation.

Supporting facts:

• The creation of this general department involves engaging all stakeholders, identifying and equipping with necessary tools, and empowering the private sector.

Topics: General Department for Digital Trade, Digital Transformation, E-commerce

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Report

Cambodia is experiencing rapid growth in its digital economy, driven by a vibrant and youthful demographic and the increasing integration of digital technology in various sectors. The median age of Cambodia is 25.6 years old, signifying a vibrant youthful demographic. Digital technology is helping in growth in many segments of the economy.

To harness this momentum, Cambodia has launched an e-commerce strategy aimed at promoting growth and opening up opportunities for businesses. The strategy was initiated by the Ministry of Commerce with the financial support of the EIF (Enhanced Integrated Framework). The government also prioritizes the digital economy and the fourth industrial revolution in their rectangular strategy phase four.

Furthermore, Cambodia is actively engaged in regional and bilateral trade agreements, such as the Cambodian-China free trade agreement and the Cambodia-Korean free trade agreement. These agreements serve as important partnerships for driving further economic growth. To ensure the continued acceleration of the digital economy, effective and well-regulated policies are crucial.

The government recognizes the need for policies that enable growth to be shared among stakeholders and ensure that no one is left behind. The Ministry of Commerce is considering the establishment of a dedicated general department for digital trade. However, creating such a department requires time and preparation.

Chia Ratan stresses the importance of engaging all stakeholders, equipping them with necessary tools, and empowering the private sector for the success of the department. Participation and understanding from the private sector in policy-making processes are also important. Chia Ratan highlights the challenges faced by the private sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly with access to government funding.

She suggests that government policies should be designed in a practical manner that can be implemented effectively by the private sector. Chia Ratan also emphasizes the need to understand the specific needs of different groups, such as women entrepreneurs. Tailored assistance programs that address these specific needs will contribute to more inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

She mentions her involvement with the Cambodian Women Entrepreneur Association and how they secured reduced interest rates for women entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 crisis. In conclusion, Cambodia is rapidly evolving in building a strong digital economy momentum. The country’s youthful demographic and the integration of digital technology in various sectors provide a solid foundation for growth.

The launch of the e-commerce strategy, prioritization of the digital economy and the fourth industrial revolution, and active engagement in trade agreements all contribute to Cambodia’s digital economy momentum. However, well-regulated policies, private sector engagement, and tailored assistance programs are crucial for ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth in the digital economy sector in Cambodia.

Arguments

The main obstacle in promoting cross-border e-commerce is the high shipping cost.

Supporting facts:

• When the platform, CambodianTrade.com was launched for B2B e-commerce activities, the shipping cost is higher than the cost of goods.

• The high shipping cost has become an obstacle to realize the objective of promoting cross-border e-commerce.

Topics: E-commerce, Shipping cost, Cross-border Trade

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The platform was initially to promote B2B cross-border e-commerce but ended up mostly selling to individual customers (B2C).

Supporting facts:

• A lot of sales on the marketplace is mostly B2C indicating that the marketplace is generating sales for SMEs.

• The original target was to promote B2B cross-border e-commerce but it’s mostly being used for B2C sales.

Topics: E-commerce, Marketplace Strategies, B2B vs B2C

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Report

The main obstacle to promoting cross-border e-commerce is the issue of high shipping costs. This challenge has hindered the achievement of the objectives set for CambodianTrade.com, a platform designed for B2B e-commerce activities. Interestingly, shipping costs on this platform are even higher than the cost of goods themselves.

The high shipping costs have become a significant deterrent to the promotion of cross-border e-commerce. As a result, the platform, initially intended to facilitate B2B cross-border transactions, has experienced a shift towards predominantly catering to individual customers (B2C) instead.

To effectively promote cross-border e-commerce and achieve the intended objectives, it is crucial to address the challenge of high shipping costs. This can be achieved through collaborative efforts with relevant stakeholders, such as the General Department of Customs and Cambodian Post, to identify and develop cost-effective shipping solutions that cater to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Prominent examples of successful e-commerce markets, like China, highlight the importance of low shipping costs, which are largely driven by high sales volumes. In conclusion, high shipping costs pose a significant barrier to the promotion of cross-border e-commerce on CambodianTrade.com.

Overcoming this challenge requires collaborative efforts to develop cost-effective shipping solutions for SMEs. By doing so, the platform can fulfill its objectives and effectively support B2B cross-border transactions.

Arguments

Increased e-commerce transactions call for strengthened customs with more human resources and advanced technological systems

Supporting facts:

• There is a growing number of e-commerce transactions from time to time

• Human resources are divided into those who work on system development, those who are expertise in functional and regulatory aspects, and those who handle clearance of e-commerce

Topics: E-commerce Transactions, Customs Reinforcement, Human Resources, Technology

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Implementation of legal frameworks is necessary for e-commerce operations

Supporting facts:

• New laboratories for pre-arrival processing have been set up

• Regulations are implemented following standards, guidelines and international conventions

Topics: Legal Frameworks, E-commerce Operations

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Automatic, paperless systems are preferred by customs for e-commerce transactions

Supporting facts:

• Automatic system ASIHUB has been implemented

• Paperless systems are better for e-commerce as they can be processed by the system as compared to paper-based formats

Topics: Automatic Systems, Paperless Systems, E-commerce Transactions

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Report

In the analysis, the speakers discuss the increasing number of e-commerce transactions and the implications it has on customs and legal frameworks. The main argument put forth is that the rise in e-commerce calls for strengthened customs with more human resources and advanced technological systems.

To support this argument, the speakers highlight that there is a growing number of e-commerce transactions happening regularly. This indicates the need for customs to be equipped with adequate resources to handle the increased workload. They also mention that human resources in customs are divided into different roles, including those involved in system development, those with expertise in functional and regulatory aspects, and those handling the clearance of e-commerce.

This suggests that having a diverse team with expertise in various areas is essential for efficient customs operations. Furthermore, the speakers emphasize the importance of advanced technological systems in customs to manage the influx of e-commerce transactions. They argue that improved technological infrastructure is necessary to effectively process and oversee the increasing volume of e-commerce activities.

This indicates that customs need to invest in advanced technologies to ensure efficient and smooth operations in the face of the e-commerce boom. Another aspect discussed in the analysis is the implementation of legal frameworks for e-commerce operations. The speakers explain that the establishment of new laboratories for pre-arrival processing is a positive step towards ensuring compliance with regulations.

They also mention that the implementation of regulations adhering to international standards, guidelines, and conventions is crucial for the proper functioning of e-commerce activities. This highlights the importance of a legal framework that is aligned with global norms to facilitate secure and seamless e-commerce transactions.

Additionally, the analysis underscores the preference for automatic and paperless systems in customs for e-commerce transactions. The implementation of the automatic system ASIHUB is seen as a positive development that streamlines the processing of e-commerce transactions. Paperless systems are also seen as more efficient and convenient, as they can be easily processed by the automated system compared to traditional paper-based formats.

This suggests that customs should encourage the adoption of automatic and paperless systems to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of e-commerce operations. In conclusion, the analysis highlights the need for strengthened customs with increased human resources and advanced technological systems to cope with the growing number of e-commerce transactions.

It advises the implementation of legal frameworks that are in line with international standards for the smooth operation of e-commerce activities. Moreover, it encourages the adoption of automatic and paperless systems in customs to improve efficiency and streamline e-commerce transactions.

Overall, the analysis provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the surge in e-commerce and offers recommendations for customs and legal frameworks to adapt to this changing landscape.

Arguments

The importance of e-commerce and inclusion in FTAs

Supporting facts:

• E-commerce market projected to grow from $300 billion in 2020 to $1 trillion in 2030

• E-commerce has seen a spike during the COVID-19 pandemic

• Cambodia has signed multiple FTAs with e-commerce provisions

Topics: E-commerce, FTAs, Economic growth

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Long Khammichet thinks the steps for negotiations are not too high for LDCs, including Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar to handle in relation to the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement

Supporting facts:

• ASEAN still adheres quite closely to the principle of different level of development among its members, which provides flexibility

• Flexibilities such as transition periods and capacity building and technical assistance that are seen in its past FTAs will bring comfort

• Negotiations have only just begun, so they have yet to see the first draft of the agreement

• ASEAN is looking to accelerate its transformation into a leading digital economy through this agreement

• Agreement will cover broad elements like digital trade, cross-border e-commerce, payment and e-invoicing, digital ID and authentication, online safety and cybersecurity, cross-border data flows and data protections, competition policy, cooperation on emerging topics, and talent, mobility and cooperation

Topics: ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, LDCs, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar

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Report

The analysis underscores the importance of e-commerce and its inclusion in Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). The e-commerce market is projected to grow from $300 billion in 2020 to $1 trillion in 2030, with a significant spike in activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cambodia has recognised this potential and has signed multiple FTAs with e-commerce provisions, demonstrating its commitment to leveraging e-commerce for future development.

Including e-commerce in FTAs is seen as a forward-thinking approach, ensuring these agreements are future-ready and aligned with modern digital trends. It also serves as a roadmap for the progressive evolution of national legal and regulatory frameworks for e-commerce. By fulfilling these commitments, countries can keep pace with the rapidly developing e-commerce sector.

Implementing the commitments made in FTAs is crucial for enhancing national e-commerce frameworks. These commitments provide a work plan for the enhancement of legal and regulatory frameworks, which are essential for the growth and stability of the e-commerce sector. The analysis emphasises that fulfilling these commitments is not a matter of “if” but “when,” given the world’s rapid progress in this field.

As for the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, negotiations are seen as manageable for countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, which are classified as Least Developed Countries (LDCs). ASEAN values the principle of different levels of development among its members, which provides flexibility during negotiations.

Past FTAs have demonstrated that LDCs can benefit from flexibilities such as transition periods, capacity building, and technical assistance. While the first draft of the agreement is yet to be seen, ASEAN aims to accelerate its transformation into a leading digital economy, covering various aspects such as digital trade, cross-border e-commerce, payment systems, online safety, cybersecurity, and data flows.

Competition policy, cooperation on emerging topics, and talent mobility are also part of the agreement. The analysis suggests a positive and progressive approach towards the negotiations, while also advising caution. Some proposed provisions, such as digital identifications and data exchange platforms, go beyond current national laws and regulations, requiring further negotiation and consideration.

Despite these challenges, the negotiations are considered manageable for LDCs like Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. The agreement is viewed as a crucial step for the future, regardless of the specific outcomes of the negotiations. In summary, the analysis underlines the importance of e-commerce and its inclusion in FTAs.

It highlights the projected growth and recent surge in e-commerce, as well as Cambodia’s commitment through multiple FTAs. The inclusion of e-commerce in FTAs is crucial for future development and the evolution of national regulatory frameworks. The analysis also provides insights into the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement and emphasizes the manageable nature of negotiations for LDCs, supported by ASEAN’s flexibility.

While caution is advised for provisions beyond current laws, a positive and progressive approach is encouraged. Overall, the analysis promotes the long-term benefits of integrating the digital economy while accurately reflecting the main text.

Arguments

Policy space is essential in digital trade agreements

Supporting facts:

• A 2014 UNCTAD report defined policy space as the freedom and ability of a government to identify and pursue the most appropriate mix of economic and social policies

• Policy space discussion began in reference to the Uruguay Round of agreements

• The number of agreements that have been recorded as having provisions affecting e-commerce and digital trade is over 400

Topics: E-commerce, Digital Trade, Policy Space, Digital Economy

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Effective use of policy space requires policymakers to have a vision of where they want to take an economy.

Supporting facts:

• Analyzing the national e-commerce ecosystem and digital trade is essential

• Development of statistics to evidence-based policymaking is important

Topics: Policy Space, National Development Strategy, Local capabilities, Policy Instruments, Monitoring Mechanisms

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Report

The analysis conducted reveals several key points regarding policy space and its importance in digital trade agreements. Policy space is defined as the freedom and ability of governments to identify and pursue the most appropriate mix of economic and social policies.

It is argued that policy space is essential in digital trade agreements. One important finding is that there are over 400 agreements recorded as having provisions affecting e-commerce and digital trade. This highlights the growing significance of digital trade and the need for robust policies in this area.

The discussion on policy space began in reference to the Uruguay Round of agreements, and it has since become a crucial issue in shaping trade agreements. Another key point is that appropriate policy space is required in trade agreements dealing with cross-border data flows.

It is highlighted that the issues related to data flows are not limited to trade alone; they also encompass elements such as human rights and national security. This highlights the need for comprehensive and holistic policies that consider a range of factors beyond purely economic considerations.

While having policy space is important, it is also emphasized that countries need to effectively utilise it. Merely having the freedom to shape policies is not enough; policymakers need to have a clear vision of where they want to take their economies.

Effective use of policy space requires a deep understanding of the national e-commerce ecosystem and digital trade dynamics. Additionally, the development of statistics for evidence-based policymaking is deemed crucial in ensuring that policy space is utilised effectively. The analysis also uncovers the role of tools and assessments in guiding countries’ transition in digital trade.

The e-trade readiness diagnostic report and tools like the e-trade reform tracker are mentioned as useful resources for countries looking to develop their digital trade capabilities. These tools provide a clear understanding of local capabilities, constraints, and opportunities, enabling countries to identify areas for improvement and progress.

Furthermore, the analysis highlights the importance of public-private dialogue in ensuring inclusion in digital trade agreements. It is emphasised that such dialogues should encompass all segments of society, including women, youth, rural populations, and people with disabilities. The involvement of diverse stakeholders is crucial in addressing the digital divide and promoting equal opportunities for all.

In conclusion, this detailed analysis highlights the significance of policy space in digital trade agreements. It underscores the need for appropriate policy space, effective utilisation, and comprehensive understanding of the digital trade ecosystem. It also recognises the role of tools and assessments in guiding countries’ transition and the importance of inclusive public-private dialogues.

Policymakers and stakeholders are urged to consider these insights to shape more effective and equitable digital trade agreements.

Arguments

Cambodia’s progress on trade facilitation and paperless trade has been outstanding, leading all the LDCs

Supporting facts:

• Cambodia achieved an implementation rate of 80.6% across measures in the UN Trade Facilitation Survey

• Cambodia exceeds the global average for LDCs, which is 55%, and also exceeds the global average, which is below 70%

Topics: Trade Facilitation, Paperless trade, Digital trade

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Cross-border paperless trade is the ultimate step of trade digitalization

Supporting facts:

• Cross-border paperless trade is a seamless flow of electronic data and documents, not only within the national environment, but across borders and around the entire supply chain

• Implementing cross-border paperless trade can result in about 17% reduction in trade costs on average across the globe

Topics: Cross-border paperless trade, Trade digitalization

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Report

Cambodia has made remarkable progress in the areas of trade facilitation and paperless trade, outperforming other countries classified as Least Developed Countries (LDCs). According to the UN Trade Facilitation Survey, Cambodia has achieved an impressive implementation rate of 80.6%, which is significantly higher than the global average for LDCs of 55%, as well as the overall global average that remains below 70%.

This outstanding achievement reflects Cambodia’s commitment to streamlining trade processes and improving economic growth. In addition to this, embracing cross-border paperless trade has the potential to bring about significant cost reductions. This involves a seamless flow of electronic data and documents not just within national borders but across international supply chains, resulting in an average reduction in trade costs of approximately 17% worldwide.

This highlights the importance of digitalization in revolutionizing international trade and boosting economic efficiency. To ensure the effective implementation and oversight of paperless systems, it is crucial for Cambodia to establish a core team of technical and legal experts. By building this team, the country can leverage the necessary expertise to navigate the complexities of paperless trade and ensure the smooth functioning of the system.

Prioritizing the development of this competent team will allow Cambodia to sustain its progress and maintain its leadership in trade facilitation and paperless trade among LDCs. Moreover, incorporating provisions for paperless trade cooperation in trade agreements can enhance trust and collaboration among trade partners.

By including these provisions, Cambodia can foster stronger partnerships and create an environment conducive to the widespread adoption of paperless trade practices. This, in turn, will streamline trade processes across borders and improve efficiency. Additionally, achieving successful trade digitalization requires addressing capacity gaps within agencies and promoting collaboration among various stakeholders, including inter-agency cooperation and public-private sector partnerships.

By reducing these gaps and encouraging cooperation, Cambodia can overcome the challenges associated with trade digitalization and create a harmonized environment for digital trading. However, before undertaking complex capacity building initiatives, it is essential to prioritize reducing the digital divide and ensuring widespread access to the internet.

Bridging this divide will enable equal participation in the digital economy and allow individuals to benefit from the advantages offered by paperless trade. By ensuring internet access for all, Cambodia can promote inclusivity and maximize the potential of trade digitalization.

In conclusion, Cambodia’s exceptional progress in trade facilitation and paperless trade surpasses that of other LDCs. With an implementation rate of 80.6% in the UN Trade Facilitation Survey, Cambodia has exceeded both the global average for LDCs and the overall global average.

Embracing cross-border paperless trade can lead to significant cost reductions, while building a core team of experts, incorporating provisions for cooperation, narrowing capacity gaps, and prioritizing internet access will pave the way for successful trade digitalization in Cambodia.

Arguments

Sven Calvo emphasizes on the importance of policy space in e-commerce negotiations for developing countries

Supporting facts:

• Policy space allows countries to strategize their own national agenda.

• UNCTAD has been advocating for policy space in procedural trade agreement negotiations.

Topics: Policy space, Digital trade agreements, Developing countries

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Report

Sven Calvo emphasises the importance of policy space in e-commerce negotiations for developing countries. He highlights that policy space allows these countries to strategise their own national agenda, enabling them to shape trade agreements according to their specific needs and interests.

This flexibility empowers developing countries to protect and promote their domestic industries, safeguard labour rights, and tackle inequality. However, Sven also questions the relevance of policy space in digital trade agreements and raises concerns about whether UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) still supports developing countries in negotiations.

He wonders if policy space remains a priority or if the focus has shifted towards other trade-related issues. It is worth noting that UNCTAD has long advocated for policy space in procedural trade agreement negotiations. They actively promote this concept to allow developing countries the freedom and autonomy to negotiate based on their national agenda in e-commerce discussions.

This approach acknowledges the diverse economic and developmental circumstances among developing countries and ensures their equal participation in global trade. The analysis suggests that policy space plays a significant role in ensuring the interests and priorities of developing countries are adequately represented in trade negotiations, particularly in the dynamic digital economy.

It grants these countries the opportunity to carve out their own paths for economic growth and development, rather than being compelled to conform to a one-size-fits-all approach. In conclusion, Sven Calvo underscores the value of policy space in e-commerce negotiations for developing countries.

While he raises questions about its relevance in digital trade agreements and the support provided by UNCTAD, it is evident that UNCTAD actively advocates for policy space in procedural trade agreement negotiations, recognising its importance in empowering developing countries to shape trade agreements based on their own national agenda.

Arguments

Current global tax system was established in the 1920s before many developing countries were even in existence

Supporting facts:

• The current tax system was established by colonial powers in the 1920s

• Developing countries started to contribute to broader economic issues leading to pushback from colonial powers

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African countries and global South are asking for the conversation on tax regulation to be shifted back to the United Nations

Supporting facts:

• The shift aims for an equitable playing field where the interests of all countries are taken into consideration

• Global South countries had voiced the need for an inclusive forum for tax discussions in the past

• The Africa group recently tabled continuation of the discussion at the United Nations

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Shift in power dynamics to reflect the interests and needs of global South countries is starting to emerge

Supporting facts:

• The UK on behalf of EU countries, tabled a motion to not have a discussion on a UN framework convention, but this was voted against by Global South countries

• This is the first time conversations are leading towards an equitable space for these countries

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Report

The current global tax system, established by colonial powers in the 1920s, is facing criticism from developing countries. These countries argue that the tax system was put in place before many of them even existed, and as a result, it does not adequately consider their interests and needs.

In recent years, developing countries have started to contribute more to broader economic issues, which has led to pushback from colonial powers who have traditionally dominated the global tax discussions. African countries and the Global South are at the forefront of the call for a shift in power dynamics and the inclusion of their perspectives in global tax discussions.

They believe that the conversation on tax regulation should be brought back to the United Nations, where all countries can participate and have their voices heard. The aim of this shift is to create a more equitable playing field, where the interests of all countries are taken into consideration.

There have been notable efforts in this direction. The Global South countries, particularly those in Africa, have expressed the need for an inclusive forum for tax discussions in the past. Most recently, the Africa group tabled a proposal to continue the discussion on tax regulation at the United Nations.

This move highlights the growing support for a more inclusive and equitable approach to tax policy. However, the UK, on behalf of EU countries, initially opposed the idea of having a discussion on a UN framework convention for tax regulation.

This motion was ultimately voted against by Global South countries, marking a significant shift in power dynamics. For the first time, conversations are leading towards an equitable space that reflects the interests and needs of the Global South countries. In conclusion, the current global tax system, established by colonial powers in the 1920s, is facing criticism from developing countries.

African countries and the Global South are demanding a shift in power dynamics and the inclusion of their perspectives in global tax discussions. The push for the conversation on tax regulation to be brought back to the United Nations aims to create a more equitable playing field and consider the interests of all countries.

While opposition initially existed, there are signs that the power dynamics are starting to shift towards a more inclusive approach.

Arguments

The current international tax architecture needs reform

Supporting facts:

• The digital economy has made the tax rules ineffective

• E-commerce is an integral part of various sectors including manufacturing and services.

• There are diverging opinions about the correct forum to discuss these reforms

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Trade rules impact on taxation

Supporting facts:

• Rules like not requiring offshore providers to have a local presence, not requiring data to be held within the source country, and not capping the cross-border royalty payments can pose obstacles to new tax regimes.

• There are differences between the trade rules in different agreements such as TPP, CPTPP, ASEP, etc.

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Digital Service Taxes (DSTs) are introduced as a solution

Supporting facts:

• Countries introduce DSTs to tax revenue of large digital services businesses

• U.S. launched investigations under Section 301 and threatened to impose sanctions

• OECD G20 BEPS process’ Pillar 1 solution seeks to address e-commerce taxation.

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Report

The current international tax architecture is in need of reform due to the ineffective tax rules imposed by the digital economy. This has generated concerns and criticisms, leading to a negative sentiment surrounding the issue. E-commerce taxation, which is an integral part of various sectors including manufacturing and services, has had a detrimental impact on taxation.

One of the main arguments is that trade rules have also contributed to the negative impact on taxation. For instance, rules such as not requiring offshore providers to have a local presence, not mandating data to be held within the source country, and not capping cross-border royalty payments have created obstacles for new tax regimes.

Furthermore, there are discrepancies between trade rules found in different agreements, such as TPP, CPTPP, ASEP, and others. In response to these issues, Digital Service Taxes (DSTs) have been introduced as a proposed solution. Countries have taken action by implementing DSTs to tax the revenue of large digital services businesses.

This development shows a neutral sentiment towards DSTs. Additionally, other initiatives such as the OECD G20 BEPS process’ Pillar 1 solution seek to address the challenges related to e-commerce taxation. It is worth mentioning that Canada and New Zealand are among the countries planning to implement DSTs.

This demonstrates a positive stance towards finding a common solution to the problem. In the face of challenges like Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act, collective defense strategies may be employed to safeguard countries against potential sanctions. In conclusion, the need for reform in the international tax architecture is evident due to the ineffectiveness of current tax rules in the digital economy.

E-commerce taxation and trade rules create obstacles and discrepancies in tax regimes. As a solution, DSTs have been introduced, and countries are starting to implement them. It is imperative for countries to collaborate to find a common solution, as there are shared interests and potential collective defense strategies to address the challenges that arise.

Arguments

There is a need to reform the international tax architecture that is over 100 years old for it to accommodate the contemporary economic landscape including e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• There is an international consensus that change is needed

• The current legal framework governing the international tax architecture is not fit for purpose especially with regards to e-commerce

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There is debate over the correct forum for these reforms; competing processes are ongoing at the OECD and UN

Supporting facts:

• OECD’s BEPS project has run for close to a decade

• UN’s mandate provided by the UNGA resolution where 125 mostly developing countries backed a UN draft resolution proposed by Nigeria on behalf of the African group calling for a framework convention on international tax cooperation

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The OECD’s pillar 1 solution attempts to address e-commerce taxation by allowing market jurisdictions to tax digital platforms even if they don’t have physical presence in those jurisdictions

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This OECD pillar 1 solution is seen as inadequate by developing countries and tax justice advocates

Supporting facts:

• They believe it would continue to exempt companies with billions in assets and revenues

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There is an ongoing debate regarding the issue of moratorium and custom duties on electronic transmissions both at the WTO and in free trade agreements

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The UN resolution is pushing towards a UN tax convention and the creation of a UN tax body

Supporting facts:

• The Africa group led by Nigeria and other African nations pushed for this UN resolution to create a more equitable playing field

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The attempts to exempt digital economy taxation discussions at the United Nations should be viewed with skepticism

Supporting facts:

• Many sectors, including international financial institutions, are trying to carve out UN for taxation of the digital economy, arguing that the issue is too complicated for developing countries to handle. However, this is a condescending and inaccurate view as all countries have capacity to discuss these issues

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It is important for developing countries to engage both the UN and WTO processes

Supporting facts:

• As the big companies look at these issues on a holistic level, developing countries must also engage both UN and WTO processes in order to counteract any move to exempt platforms from income taxation in developing countries

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Report

The international tax architecture is widely seen as in need of reform to better adapt to the changing economic landscape, particularly in relation to e-commerce. There is a growing consensus that the current legal framework governing international taxation is inadequate.

The argument for reforming the tax system is supported by the fact that the existing architecture is over 100 years old and does not adequately address the complexities and challenges posed by e-commerce. The debate over the correct forum for these tax reforms is ongoing, with competing processes taking place at both the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the United Nations (UN).

The OECD has been running its Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) project for almost a decade, while the UN has received a mandate from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to create a framework convention on international tax cooperation, backed by 125 mostly developing countries.

One proposed solution from the OECD is referred to as “pillar 1”, which aims to address e-commerce taxation by allowing market jurisdictions to tax digital platforms, even if they do not have a physical presence in those jurisdictions. However, this solution is viewed as inadequate by developing countries and tax justice advocates, who argue that it would still exempt companies with significant assets and revenues.

There is also an ongoing debate regarding the issue of moratoriums and customs duties on electronic transmissions, both at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and in free trade agreements. This debate raises questions about the potential impact on developing countries and their revenues.

The push for tax reforms is further reinforced by the UN resolution calling for the creation of a UN tax convention and a UN tax body. This resolution, advocated by the Africa group and other African nations, seeks to create a fairer playing field in international taxation.

Critics argue that the OECD’s inclusive framework is not genuinely inclusive as it fails to genuinely include the voices of southern countries. This raises concerns about the representation and inclusion of perspectives from developing countries in the reform process. There are also concerns about attempts to exempt discussions on digital economy taxation at the United Nations, with some arguing that such attempts should be viewed with skepticism.

Moreover, the renewal of the WTO moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions is deemed detrimental for developing countries. It is argued that this could lead to significant revenue losses, particularly when combined with efforts by big companies to obtain tax-free treatments at both the customs and corporate income tax levels.

In conclusion, there is a growing consensus that the international tax architecture needs to be reformed to accommodate the evolving economic landscape, particularly with regard to e-commerce. The debate over the correct forum for these reforms is ongoing between the OECD and the UN.

The OECD’s proposed solution is seen as insufficient by developing countries and their advocates. There are also discussions about moratoriums and customs duties on electronic transmissions. The UN resolution aims to create a fairer playing field through a UN tax convention and a UN tax body.

Critics argue that the OECD’s inclusive framework lacks inclusivity, and there are concerns about attempts to exempt discussions on digital economy taxation at the UN. Renewing the WTO moratorium on customs duties is viewed as detrimental to developing countries’ revenues.

Developing countries are encouraged to engage in both UN and WTO processes to address these issues.

Arguments

Digital Companies often escape taxation by setting their businesses in tax heavens

Supporting facts:

• Certain companies like MercadoLibre have legal addresses in tax havens

• These companies often favor to declare their economic activities as IT services or financial intermediation

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Digital economy should bring benefits to the society

Supporting facts:

• The digital platform economy is expanding in Latin America, positioning itself as an inclusive service provider

• Digital companies have managed to bring services into sectors of the population that previously didn’t have access

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Report

According to the analysis, digital companies often engage in tax evasion by establishing their businesses in tax havens. They take advantage of this loophole by declaring their economic activities as IT services or financial intermediation, thereby avoiding paying taxes. This practice has a negative sentiment associated with it as it leads to a loss of tax revenue for governments and exacerbates income inequality.

To address this issue, it is argued that there is a need for reform in the taxation system for digital companies. This reform is necessary to ensure a fair and equitable tax system. The current system often results in consumers bearing the burden of taxes through increased prices, rather than the companies themselves.

This sentiment is grounded in the belief that digital companies should contribute their fair share to society through taxation. Furthermore, the expansion of the digital platform economy in Latin America is seen as a positive development. It is positioning itself as an inclusive service provider, bringing services to sectors of the population that previously had limited or no access.

This is viewed as a significant benefit for society as it promotes economic growth, innovation, and infrastructure development. The digital economy is seen as a promising avenue for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

In conclusion, the analysis highlights the issue of tax evasion among digital companies operating in tax havens. It supports the argument for tax reform with the aim of ensuring a fair and equitable tax system. The expansion of the digital platform economy in Latin America is seen as a positive development that can bring numerous benefits to society, including increased access to services and opportunities for previously marginalized populations.

Arguments

India has been trying to regulate tax on digital services since 2016 through the ‘equalization levy’, charging 6% tax on non-resident e-commerce operators engaged in online advertisement and related activities.

Supporting facts:

• India’s initial Equalization Levy was introduced in the Finance Act of 2016

• From April 2020 under the Finance Act 2020, India expanded the scope of the equalization levy to include a tax of 2% on gross income of non-resident e-commerce operators.

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Despite its introduction, the equalization levy has met with challenges and gaps in regular assessment and collection.

Supporting facts:

• Businesses are required to self-assess and remit the relevant fee on a quarterly basis, but compliance is not perfect.

• There’s a lack of understanding and guidance among professionals about the equalization levy.

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The surge in digital transactions and e-commerce particularly post-Covid, reveals the urgent need to facilitate more stringent measures for taxation of digital platforms.

Supporting facts:

• Due to the Covid-19, digital transactions and e-commerce have significantly surged across India, thereby enlarging the market for e-commerce companies.

• Many digital platforms like gaming, streaming services are yet to be properly taxed.

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Indian companies functioning as Multinational Companies (MNCs) can be as extractive and damaging as foreign MNCs

Supporting facts:

• Indian companies are conducting business in Africa and other regions worldwide.

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Report

India has been attempting to regulate the taxation of digital services since 2016 through the implementation of the equalisation levy. This levy imposes a 6% tax on non-resident e-commerce operators engaged in online advertising and related activities. However, despite its introduction, there have been challenges and gaps in the assessment and collection of the equalisation levy.

To address the surge in digital transactions and e-commerce, particularly in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, stricter taxation measures for digital platforms are urgently required. This increase in digital transactions has significantly expanded the market for e-commerce companies in India.

Yet, many digital platforms, such as gaming and streaming services, are not being properly taxed. The lack of understanding and guidance among professionals regarding the equalisation levy has resulted in imperfect compliance. Businesses are required to self-assess and remit the relevant fee on a quarterly basis, but there are gaps in ensuring full compliance.

This highlights the need for improved education and support to ensure accurate assessment and collection of the equalisation levy. The discussion also emphasizes the crucial role of civil society and grassroots movements in advocating for better taxation policies. There is limited understanding of taxation issues among citizens and grassroots movements, leading to a lack of pressure on policymakers.

The speaker, who is a member of the Indian Social Action Forum and Tax and Fiscal Justice Asia group, plans to campaign for improved taxation of digital platforms. Furthermore, it is highlighted that Indian companies operating as multinational companies (MNCs) can be just as extractive and damaging as foreign MNCs.

This challenges the perception that domestic companies are inherently more responsible and sustainable in their business practices. Therefore, civil society in India should scrutinise both foreign and domestic businesses to hold them accountable. Overall, this extended summary highlights the need for stricter taxation measures for digital platforms, improved compliance and collection of the equalisation levy, and increased pressure from civil society and grassroots movements to ensure better taxation policies that benefit the people.

Arguments

UNCTRAL is focusing on the interactions and the legal relationships between traders through progressive harmonization and modernization of law of international trade.

Supporting facts:

• UNCTRAL has been developing harmonised texts for over 30 years, which mostly consist of model laws.

• Recent work by UNCTRAL includes a Model Law on the Recognition and Use of Identity Management and Trust Services (2020).

• UNCTRAL is now examining the trading of data, including industrial data and commercially sensitive data.

Topics: international trade, legal affairs, policy-making

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Ancetral is working on developing ELI-ALI principles into an international legal instrument

Supporting facts:

• Ongoing work at Ancetral on picking up themes from the ELI-ALI principles

Topics: Ancetral, ELI-ALI principles, International Legal Instrument

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Report

The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) has been developing harmonized texts for over 30 years, primarily consisting of model laws. These model laws provide guidance to countries seeking to modernize and harmonize their own international trade laws. One of UNCITRAL’s recent accomplishments is the Model Law on the Recognition and Use of Identity Management and Trust Services (2020), which establishes a framework for regulating identity management and trust services in electronic transactions.

UNCITRAL is also examining the trading of data, including industrial and commercially sensitive data. This reflects the organization’s recognition of the growing importance of data in international trade, as well as the legal complexities associated with it. By understanding the nature of data at a commercial level and the rights and obligations of participants in the data market, UNCITRAL aims to create legal frameworks that promote fair and transparent data trading practices.

In addition, UNCITRAL’s work on electronic transactions and traders’ identities complements Geneva’s approach to data and digital trade. UNCITRAL has developed model laws on electronic commerce, electronic signatures, and electronic transferable records, ensuring the legal recognition and enforceability of electronic transactions, signatures, and records.

Furthermore, Ancetral is working to transform the ELI-ALI principles into an international legal instrument. These principles, developed by the European Law Institute and the American Law Institute, aim to harmonize and improve private law systems in Europe and the United States.

Ancetral’s efforts demonstrate their commitment to enhancing legal frameworks and promoting international cooperation in private law. Overall, UNCITRAL’s ongoing work on modernizing and harmonizing international trade law, particularly in relation to identity management, trust services, data trading, and electronic transactions, plays a crucial role in facilitating secure and efficient global trade.

Additionally, Ancetral’s endeavor to establish the ELI-ALI principles as an international legal instrument aligns with the broader objective of strengthening legal frameworks and promoting international legal cooperation.

Arguments

There’s a need for domestic law to understand and grapple with what data is

Supporting facts:

• shift from documents to data

• the legislative frameworks are being put in place

• the mutual recognition of the outcome of these trust services

Topics: data law, offline to online transition, data mapping

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The audience member queries regarding the relationship between the MLIT and Virtual Credentials

Supporting facts:

• Virtual Credential refers to a set of linked credentials that go back to a trusted authority.

Topics: MLIT, Virtual Credentials

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Concern over the potential lack of responsibility of intermediary data handlers in data rights infringement cases

Supporting facts:

• The audience member notes that in cases where an upstream data provider wants to take legal action against a downstream person, the intermediary party may not be held accountable

Topics: data governance, data rights, digital economy

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Question about the drafting process of model laws for MLIT

Supporting facts:

• Pointed out that domestic level law drafting includes lobbying and scientific expertise.

• Questioned the geographical input considered during drafting these laws, especially considering challenges in regions like South Asia

Topics: Model Law on International Trade, Trust Services, Identity Management

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Open debate on the future shape of laws of contracts in the digital economic world

Supporting facts:

• Noted that traditional concepts of contracts and ownership do not cater to new developments in digital economy.

• Asked whether there should be separate laws for different types of contracts or if changes should be incorporated into existing laws

Topics: Digital Economy, Contract Law

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Report

The discussion emphasized the importance of domestic law in understanding and dealing with data. It acknowledged the need for domestic legislation to grapple with and comprehend the nature of data. This recognition arises from the ongoing shift in society from traditional documents to data, making it imperative for legal frameworks to adapt and evolve accordingly.

The implementation of high-level policy goals through legislative frameworks was deemed crucial. This involves translating policy objectives into actionable laws at the domestic level. The work of experts like Lucas and Rory McMillan, who utilize model laws in drafting legislation, was cited as examples of how this can be accomplished.

By adopting model laws, countries can effectively align their domestic legal systems with high-level policy goals, such as those outlined in SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Additionally, the adoption and application of model laws were highlighted as integral to digital transformation, particularly in government operations.

For instance, MLIT being incorporated into laws indicates the significance of model laws in driving the digitization of governmental processes. The increasing need for authenticity, accuracy, and assurance in digital documents further underlines the importance of embracing model laws in the context of digital transformation.

However, the adoption of the Malita model law faced challenges due to the requirement for collective action and a shift from traditional practices. Despite the benefits it offers, such as enhanced efficiency and reduced reliance on paper-based processes, the slow adoption of the Malita model law was attributed to legacy departments being resistant to change and the lack of wider uptake.

These obstacles suggest the need for stakeholder collaboration and a broader transformation to fully integrate the new model law into existing systems. Another concern raised during the discussion was the lack of accountability for intermediary data handlers in cases of data rights infringement.

The audience member expressed worries about the potential negligence on the part of intermediary parties when forwarding data, as they may not bear legal responsibility for any wrongdoing. This criticism reflects the growing need to address accountability issues within the data governance framework, especially when intermediaries are involved.

In terms of contract law, it was acknowledged that traditional concepts of contracts and ownership may no longer be sufficient to accommodate the developments in the digital economy. This has prompted a debate on whether separate laws should be established for different types of contracts or if changes should be incorporated into existing laws.

The need for contract law to evolve to adequately address the emerging concepts within the digital economy was recognized. Additionally, questions were raised about the drafting process of model laws, emphasizing the need for both technical and legal expertise. The audience was curious about the inclusion of scientific expertise and the geographical input considered during the drafting process, particularly regarding challenges faced by regions like South Asia.

These questions highlight the importance of a comprehensive and inclusive approach to model law drafting that takes into account multiple perspectives and considerations. In conclusion, the discussions revolved around the vital role of domestic law in understanding and managing data, and the significance of legislative frameworks in implementing high-level policy goals.

The adoption and application of model laws were emphasized as a means to drive digital transformation, particularly within government operations. However, challenges in the adoption process, the lack of accountability for intermediary data handlers, and the need for an evolved approach to contract law in the digital economy were identified as areas that require further attention.

The inquiries regarding the drafting process of model laws also underscored the importance of incorporating technical and legal expertise, as well as considering diverse geographical perspectives.

Arguments

Luca Castellani highlights a shift in legal understanding of commercial dealings, moving from tangible documents to data represented in documents.

Supporting facts:

• Luca mentions UNCTRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) as a key instrument that allows the use of documents of title in electronic form.

• The pandemic highlighted a significant digitization gap in supply chains, emphasising the importance of electronic handling of commercial documents.

• Luca also refers to the notion that a significant portion of data generated in modern trade is generated by objects, not people.

Topics: data governance, commercial dealings, document digitization

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Trust services provide assurance of data quality in electronic communications and can include a variety of services such as timestamping, archiving, and registered mail.

Supporting facts:

• Trust services operate independently of a legal requirement to sign, unlike handwritten signatures.

• Trust services can link the origin of a data message from an object.

Topics: Trust services, Electronic communication, Data quality

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Reliability of data from trust services can be evaluated ex ante (before the service is used) or ex post (after the service is used).

Supporting facts:

• Ex-ante evaluation is built on a presumption of data quality based on the trust service provider’s reputation and accreditation.

• Ex-post evaluation relies on post-event analysis and is typically favored by common law jurisdictions.

• Both approaches can be combined.

Topics: Data reliability, Trust services, Ex-ante evaluation, Ex-post evaluation

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Cross-border recognition of trust services is a significant challenge that needs to be addressed globally.

Supporting facts:

• The European Union has solved the issue of cross-border recognition of trust services due to its level of economic and political integration.

• The solution to this challenge does not exist at a global level yet.

Topics: Cross-border recognition, Trust services, Global challenges

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The identity element in electronic signatures is derived from a foundational identity

Supporting facts:

• The MLIT refers to the existence of technology neutral descriptions of levels of reliability for trust services and levels of assurance for identity management.

Topics: EIDAS, identity management, electronic signatures

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There’s an ongoing global movement towards paperless trade, which will especially benefit geographically disadvantaged countries

Supporting facts:

• Japan will adopt Malita for Bills of Lading by 2025 and Kiribati has included it in their electronic transaction flow.

• This will help reduce transportation costs and possibly mitigate geographic disadvantages.

Topics: paperless trade, geographic disadvantage, transportation costs

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Ancetral, a commission of the UN General Assembly, reflects different legal traditions and includes views from all regions

Supporting facts:

• Ancetral is made up of 70 member states, representing all world regions

Topics: Ancetral, UN General Assembly, Legal Traditions

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MLIT is open to standards that have certain recognition, as there’s no global consensus on applicable standards

Supporting facts:

• MLIT refers to standards but does not explicitly name them

• Standards for identity management could be ETSI or an IST

• Sometimes ISO or ITU standards are relevant, depending on the country

Topics: MLIT, Global Standards, Regional Recognition

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Report

Luca Castellani highlights a shift in legal understanding of commercial dealings, moving from tangible documents to data represented in documents. He points out the significance of the UNCTRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR), which allows the use of electronic documents of title in commercial transactions.

Castellani emphasizes the crucial role of electronic signatures in modern digital commerce. These signatures, despite their complexity, are fundamental in ensuring the authenticity and integrity of electronic transactions. Trust services, which operate independently of a legal requirement to sign, play a vital role in verifying the origin and reliability of data messages.

The reliability of data from trust services can be evaluated either ex ante or ex post. Ex-ante evaluation relies on the trust service provider’s reputation and accreditation, while ex-post evaluation involves post-event analysis. Castellani warns against over-reliance on ex-ante evaluation, particularly for developing countries, as it may hinder development and create data silos.

Cross-border recognition of trust services is a significant challenge that needs to be addressed globally. While the European Union has successfully solved this issue due to its economic and political integration, a global solution is yet to be established. The identity element in electronic signatures is derived from foundational identity.

Castellani mentions the existence of technology-neutral descriptions of reliability levels for trust services and assurance levels for identity management, emphasizing the importance of secure and trusted identities in electronic transactions. The ongoing movement towards paperless trade is set to benefit geographically disadvantaged countries by reducing transportation costs and potential barriers.

B2B transitions to electronic transactions also provide substantial cost savings, contributing to more efficient and sustainable business practices. Ancetral, a commission of the UN General Assembly, represents different legal traditions and ensures balanced consideration of legal matters. The MLIT is open to standards with certain recognition, accommodating regional differences in electronic commerce practices.

Overall, Castellani’s arguments highlight the transformation in commercial dealings towards data-driven transactions. Electronic signatures and trust services play essential roles in ensuring the authenticity and reliability of electronic transactions. However, careful consideration should be given to the reliance on ex-ante evaluations to avoid hindering development.

The challenges of cross-border recognition and the importance of secure identities call for global collaboration. The movement towards paperless trade presents cost savings and benefits for geographically disadvantaged countries, while B2B transitions to electronic transactions contribute to more efficient and sustainable business practices.

Ancetral and the MLIT provide platforms for fostering strong institutions and harmonizing electronic commerce practices.

Arguments

Traditional private law concepts and rules don’t fulfill the requirements of the data economy.

Supporting facts:

• Concept of ownership doesn’t work well for a resource that can be used by multiple parties at the same time without exhaustion.

• Data transactions often involve the interest of third parties who hold rights with respect to data.

Topics: Data Economy, Private Law

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Principles for data economy addresses data contracts, third party aspects and data rights.

Supporting facts:

• The project was a joint venture of the American Law Institute and the European Law Institute.

• First project between both institutions, aiming at achieving significant harmonization across different legal traditions.

Topics: Data Economy, Data Contracts, Third Party Aspects, Data Rights

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The principles have defined five different types of contracts with default rules for data transactions.

Supporting facts:

• Contracts for the transfer of data, simple access to a data source, exploitation of a data source, authorization to access and data pooling contracts are the defined types.

• These contracts consider both selling existing data and granting access to a data source generating data in real-time.

Topics: Data Contracts, Data Transactions, Data Economy

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Principles propose protections for third parties in the context of onward supply of data.

Supporting facts:

• The principles suggest that recipients of data have to pass on usage limitations to downstream recipients.

• Initial suppliers have direct action against downstream recipients in case of violations.

Topics: Data Economy, Third Party Protection

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The principles for data transactions represent a novel approach inspired by trade secrets law.

Supporting facts:

• The principles aim to provide balanced protection to the interests of both third parties and downstream recipients similar to traditional transactions laws.

• The principles are compared to the protection offered to buyers, who believe that the person who sells them goods is the real owner, but are also protected by law and they get ownership even if they buy from someone who is not the real owner.

Topics: Trade Secrets Law, Data Transactions, European Law

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The middle person in any transactions are not free of liability if they violate the initial contract

Supporting facts:

• Initial supplier can put in limitations in the first contract

• The first recipient must comply with the limits and restrictions set in the contract

• If the first recipient does not comply, they are not free from any liability

Topics: Contract Law, Data Security, Liability

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Principals envision a harmonization that goes across borders, no need for new contract types in all jurisdiction

Supporting facts:

• They just need to agree upon default terms and guidelines that fill the gaps

Topics: Contract Law, Jurisdiction, International Law

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Report

The analysis explores the complexities of the data economy and its interaction with private law. It argues that traditional private law concepts and rules fail to meet the requirements of the data economy. This is because the concept of ownership is not suitable for a resource that can be used by multiple parties simultaneously without depletion.

Furthermore, data transactions often involve third parties with rights to the data. To address these challenges, principles for the data economy have been proposed. These principles cover data contracts, third party aspects, and data rights. They aim to achieve significant harmonization across different legal traditions through a joint venture of the American Law Institute and the European Law Institute.

The principles define five types of contracts for data transactions, including the transfer of data, simple access to a data source, exploitation of a data source, authorization to access, and data pooling. These contracts encompass both the sale of existing data and granting access to data sources that generate real-time data.

An important aspect of the principles is the protection they provide for third parties in the onward supply of data. Recipients of data are required to pass on usage limitations to subsequent recipients, and initial suppliers have the right to take action against downstream recipients in case of violations.

Inspired by trade secrets law, the principles aim to provide balanced protection to the interests of both third parties and downstream recipients. They apply traditional transaction concepts to data transactions with necessary modifications, ensuring legal certainty and effective operation. The principles emphasize the significance of initial contracts and their restrictions in protecting the interests of the first supplier.

They allow the initial supplier to set limitations and restrictions in the first contract, ensuring downstream recipients are aware of and bound by these terms. Notably, middle persons involved in data transactions are not exempt from liability if they violate the initial contract.

This highlights the importance of contractual compliance and accountability throughout the data transaction process. The principles envision a harmonized approach that transcends borders, eliminating the need for new contract types in different jurisdictions. By establishing default terms and guidelines, they facilitate smoother data transactions across various legal systems.

Overall, the analysis provides a comprehensive examination of the complexities surrounding the data economy and its relationship with private law. The proposed principles offer a solid foundation for addressing the unique challenges of data transactions, ensuring legal certainty and protection for all parties involved.

Arguments

Supply chains are in unprecedented times, making them more risky

Supporting facts:

• Conflicts such as Ukraine, staff shortages, and disruption to transport capacity all contribute to this issue

Topics: Supply chain, Risk, Covid-19, Disruption, Conflict

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Cargo crime is a big business, especially in Europe

Supporting facts:

• Europol has identified some 5,000 organised crime groups operating at an international level in the EU alone

Topics: Cargo crime, Europe, Organised crime groups

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Data is increasingly important in managing cargo crime

Supporting facts:

• TAPA’s intelligence system, the ‘Google of cargo crime’, connects the dots using various data sources to paint a clear picture of the issue

Topics: Data, Cargo crime, Intelligence

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Availability of good data can pose a threat if not secured, as bad actors can exploit it.

Supporting facts:

• Bad actors also have intelligence, they know exactly where the vulnerability in the sector is

Topics: Data security, Cyber threat

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Operational processes, including 100% screening, may need to be adjusted to fight perpetrators.

Supporting facts:

• The Yemen incident, where explosives were transported into Europe, lead to 100% screening by express companies

• Express companies cannot afford diversions as they promise speedy delivery

Topics: Operational processes, Screening, Security

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Report

Summary: Supply chains are facing unprecedented risks due to conflicts, staff shortages, and disruptions to transportation capacity. Cargo crime is a major concern in Europe, with thousands of organized crime groups operating within the EU. Data plays a crucial role in managing cargo crime, with TAPA’s intelligence system using various data sources to identify patterns and hotspots.

Cooperation and information sharing among stakeholders are recommended to mitigate supply chain risks. However, the security of data must be prioritized to prevent exploitation. Efforts to improve data may increase costs for logistic service providers, requiring a balance between cost optimization and data management.

Operational processes, including screening, need to be adjusted to combat criminal activities without affecting delivery speed. A holistic approach encompassing collaboration, data management, and security is vital for resilient and efficient supply chains.

Arguments

Question about the definition of e-commerce by OECD

Supporting facts:

• OECD’s definition of e-commerce is from 2009

• The definition states that it’s conducted over computer networks not specifically designed for the purpose of receiving or placing orders

Topics: E-commerce, OECD, Dropshipping, Fulfilment Centers

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The customer experience with e-commerce platforms needs to be improved in order to efficiently identify and tackle illicit trade.

Supporting facts:

• Customers often receive goods with low-value declaration which is not what they actually paid.

• This inefficient process impairs the accurate collections of revenues.

Topics: e-commerce, customer experience, illicit trade

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Finding a way to identify and profile entities for control in e-commerce transactions is needed

Supporting facts:

• In the case of e-commerce, most transactions involve individual consumers rather than legal entities.

• Custom officers use a credit analysis process to determine the level of trust and facilities provided to a company involved in transactions.

Topics: Risk Management, E-commerce, Customs Control

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Report

The discussion revolves around the definition of e-commerce by the OECD and its potential vagueness, specifically regarding social media sales, dropshipping, and fulfilment centres. The OECD’s definition of e-commerce, which dates back to 2009, states that it is conducted over computer networks that are not specifically designed for the purpose of receiving or placing orders.

However, it is argued that this definition may be unclear or vague with regard to newer forms of e-commerce, such as social media sales, dropshipping, and fulfilment centres. The audience raises concerns about the need for improved customer experience on e-commerce platforms in order to efficiently identify and tackle illicit trade.

Customers often receive goods with low-value declarations, which do not accurately reflect the actual amount they paid. This inefficient process hampers the accurate collection of revenues. Therefore, there is a pressing need to enhance the customer experience on e-commerce platforms to ensure more accurate declarations and effectively combat illicit trade.

Furthermore, the audience believes that e-commerce platforms should take a more proactive role in eliminating illicit trade. This entails actively implementing measures to identify and address fraudulent activities and ensuring the integrity of transactions. By taking a proactive stance, e-commerce platforms can contribute to the overall goal of achieving peace, justice, and strong institutions.

Another important aspect discussed is the need to find a way to identify and profile entities for control in e-commerce transactions. While not all transactions in e-commerce require customs control, it is essential to differentiate and profile entities involved in transactions.

This can be achieved through a credit analysis process used by customs officers to determine the level of trust and facilities provided to a company engaged in e-commerce transactions. By effectively identifying and profiling entities, customs authorities can allocate resources more efficiently and mitigate the risks associated with illicit trade.

In conclusion, the discussion highlights the potential vagueness of the OECD’s definition of e-commerce and the necessity for it to encompass newer forms of e-commerce like social media sales, dropshipping, and fulfilment centres. It emphasizes the importance of enhancing the customer experience on e-commerce platforms to effectively combat illicit trade and calls for e-commerce platforms to take a proactive role in eliminating such activities.

Additionally, the need to identify and profile entities for control in e-commerce transactions is underscored, with a focus on using credit analysis processes to differentiate trustworthy entities. Overall, these discussions contribute to the ongoing efforts in improving e-commerce practices and ensuring their alignment with the sustainable development goals.

Arguments

Importance of data to identify high-risk traffics and smuggling

Supporting facts:

• Data helps to reduce risks by identifying illegal or suspicious activities

• Customs authorities can protect traders’ reputations from fraudulent activities via data insights

• Data sharing between departments can speed up clearance process

Topics: Data Analysis, Security, Customs Control

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Use of anti-patterns to detect anomalies

Supporting facts:

• Understanding companies’ normal behavior through data helps customs authorities to detect any changes which might indicate illegal activities

Topics: Data Analysis, Security

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Preventing incidents through data

Supporting facts:

• Data can help prevent smuggling of dangerous items like firearms and drugs

• Customs can protect parcel post workers from dangerous substances like fentanyl

Topics: Data Analysis, Security, Protection

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Requirement to put links to sellers’ websites under review

Supporting facts:

• There have been conversations with HMRC

• The process is starting and being continued one by one

• The EU has put pressure on marketplaces to be responsible for data

Topics: Sellers’ Websites, UK Legislation, Online Marketplaces

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Entities willing to share data and cooperate with customs help maintain their own reputation and identify problem clients.

Supporting facts:

• An entity’s reputation may be at risk if there’s a pattern of seizures at their warehouse.

• The compliance with data sharing helps the customs better understand the trade body, maintaining a balance.

• Entities which do not share data or seem purposefully unhelpful may have to face stricter inspection, hampering businesses.

Topics: Risk Management, Trade Compliance, Data Sharing

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Report

The provided information highlights the significance of data in customs control and security. Data analysis plays a critical role in reducing risks and identifying illegal or suspicious activities. By analysing data, customs authorities can effectively safeguard traders’ reputations from fraudulent activities.

Additionally, data sharing among different departments can expedite the clearance process, enhancing overall efficiency. Another important aspect emphasized is the use of data to comprehend companies’ normal behaviour. By analysing data patterns, customs authorities can more easily detect changes that may indicate illegal activities.

This approach enables the use of anti-patterns to identify anomalies, facilitating the identification of potential risks and threats. The stance on stringent control over firearm imports is presented due to the presence of strict gun laws in the UK. Incidents involving the smuggling of Scorpion machine guns into the country, resulting in the loss of innocent lives, underscore the significance of maintaining strict control measures.

Data analysis also plays a crucial role in preventing the smuggling of dangerous items such as firearms and drugs. By leveraging data, customs authorities can effectively identify and prevent such incidents. Furthermore, data insights can help protect parcel post workers from hazardous substances, such as fentanyl.

Regarding online marketplaces, discussions with HMRC are underway, leading to a review of the requirement to include links to sellers’ websites. The EU has exerted pressure on marketplaces to assume responsibility for data. This development highlights the necessity of ensuring responsible data management practices within online marketplaces.

While the future policy direction remains uncertain, progress in this regard has been influenced by the ongoing pandemic and other global events. It is too early to determine the specifics of where the policy is heading, as the process is still in the planning stages.

Entities that willingly share data and cooperate with customs not only help maintain their own reputation but also assist in identifying problematic clients. Conversely, entities that do not share data or purposefully impede the process may face stricter inspections, resulting in potential disruptions to their businesses.

To aid in risk management, the suggestion of implementing a system within trade bodies or associations for sharing information about problematic companies is proposed. This system would enable companies to avoid engaging with entities that have a history of non-compliance or other issues.

The idea is that even if a problematic entity switches carriers, their reputation will follow them, allowing for proactive risk management. In cases where entities exhibit deliberate non-compliance, stringent measures and stricter regimes may be necessary and implemented. These measures serve to protect against illicit transactions, uphold trade law and order, and act as a deterrent.

Failure to provide necessary data or cooperation could result in damaging repercussions for the non-compliant entity. In conclusion, the information highlights the vital role of data in customs control and security. Data analysis enables the identification of risks, helps prevent illegal activities, and promotes efficient processes.

The importance of strict control over firearm imports and responsible data management practices are emphasised. Additionally, the significance of sharing data, cooperating with customs, and implementing risk management systems within trade bodies or associations is underscored.

Arguments

Chavarria emphasizes the importance of a standardised global data model to facilitate e-commerce processes and improve data exchange, as well as for pre-arrival information for customs processes.

Supporting facts:

• He discusses the WTO data model and its goal of creating interoperability and a ‘customs language’ for exchanged data.

• He mentions the existence of reference data sets from China, the EU, and the US that can serve as standards.

• Chavarria identifies the issue of differing data set comprehensiveness among countries, resulting in a balance between too much and too little information.

Topics: Data standardization, E-commerce, WTO Data Model

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He mentions the establishment of e-commerce framework standards by the WTO, which are continuously updated to stay relevant.

Supporting facts:

• WTO has developed an e-commerce framework of standards, guided by eight principles and sixteen standards.

• The framework was approved in 2018, updated although since, and set to be reviewed every four years.

• Chavarria stresses that the framework isn’t static and must accommodate changes in technology and data management.

Topics: WTO, E-commerce, Standards

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Chavarria discusses the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders in e-commerce.

Supporting facts:

• The last part of the WTO document Chavarria discussed allocates roles and responsibilities to all stakeholders involved in e-commerce.

• WCO aims to balance between imposing facilitation measures and defining responsibilities for the different stakeholders.

Topics: WTO, E-commerce, Stakeholders

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The definition of e-commerce can be complex and ever-evolving.

Supporting facts:

• WCO has a different approach to defining e-commerce compared to OECD, focusing more on goods.

• The concept of e-commerce is not always simple and is continually changing.

Topics: e-commerce, WCO, OECD, definitions

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Report

In a recent discussion, Chavarria highlights the importance of having a standardized global data model to enhance e-commerce processes and facilitate data exchange for customs procedures. He specifically mentions the WTO data model, which aims to establish interoperability and a common “customs language” for exchanging data.

Chavarria acknowledges that there are existing reference data sets from China, the European Union (EU), and the United States (US) that can serve as standards in this regard. However, he notes the challenge of differing data set comprehensiveness among countries, which requires finding a balance between providing too much or too little information.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has also taken steps to address the need for standards in e-commerce through the development of an e-commerce framework. This framework is guided by eight principles and sixteen standards and was approved in 2018. Chavarria emphasizes that these standards are not static but are continuously updated to adapt to changes in technology and data management.

The framework is set to be reviewed every four years to ensure its relevance in the rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape. Furthermore, Chavarria discusses the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders involved in e-commerce. The WTO document he refers to aims to allocate these roles and responsibilities among the relevant parties.

The World Customs Organization (WCO) plays a crucial role in this process by striking a balance between imposing facilitation measures and defining responsibilities for the various stakeholders. The definition of e-commerce itself is a complex and ever-evolving concept. Chavarria highlights that the WCO and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have differing approaches to defining e-commerce, with the WCO focusing more on the movement of goods.

This underscores the need to continually update and refine the definition to incorporate new developments and methodologies. The WCO’s commitment to staying up to date with the evolving nature of e-commerce is evident through their specific process for reviewing and updating the definition every four years.

This working group within the WCO is highly active, ensuring that the definition remains relevant in light of new technologies and methodologies. In conclusion, Chavarria’s discussion sheds light on the importance of a standardized global data model in improving e-commerce processes and data exchange for customs procedures.

The WTO’s development of an e-commerce framework, continuously updated standards, and the allocation of roles and responsibilities to stakeholders further support this goal. However, the complex and evolving nature of e-commerce necessitates the WCO’s commitment to regularly reviewing and updating the definition to ensure its relevance in a rapidly changing landscape.

Arguments

Data plays a vital role in ensuring safety, security, and customs compliance of the parcel delivery networks, reducing the environmental burden caused by returns and the destruction of e-commerce goods.

Supporting facts:

• 65% of e-commerce shipments entering the European Union were undervalued

• Data is required for customs control

Topics: e-commerce, Parcel Delivery Networks, Customs Compliance

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E-commerce has provided SMEs an opportunity to trade internationally, but access to tools, training, and systems often remains difficult and costly.

Supporting facts:

• Increased data requirements for international e-commerce pose a challenge for SMEs

Topics: e-commerce, SMEs, international trade

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The landscape of e-commerce has transformed drastically, causing a shift from bulk shipments to individual shipments, making customs declarations more complicated.

Supporting facts:

• Previously, bulk shipments needed only one data set and customs declaration

• E-commerce requires individual data sets and customs clearances for each product

Topics: e-commerce, customs, transformations

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In the strive for more efficient and accurate data, environmental responsibilities should not be forgotten. Digital is demanding an increasing share of Earth’s energy and is being linked with wasteful behaviour.

Supporting facts:

• 90% of all data in human history was created between 2017-2019

• Digital could improve living standards but right now is contributing negatively to the environment

Topics: Digitalization, E-commerce, Environment

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E-commerce growth is increasing rapidly and its future impacts are still not completely known

Supporting facts:

• The business from E-commerce is expected to more than double to $3.3 trillion per annum

• 3D printing creates issue on how to tax an item produced in a specific country not necessary the country where the software image is created

Topics: E-commerce, Environmental Impact

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Effort is needed to improve data quality and consistency

Supporting facts:

• Perfection may not be achieved but let’s not throw out good data in the quest for perfection

• Current data often lacks quality, consistency and is often delayed

Topics: Improvement Efforts, E-commerce

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Report

The analysis of the speakers’ arguments highlights the importance of data in the e-commerce industry. One of the main points raised is that data plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, security, and customs compliance of parcel delivery networks.

By providing accurate and comprehensive data, the environmental burden caused by returns and the destruction of e-commerce goods can be reduced. This is seen as a positive development for the industry. However, it is also noted that increasing data requirements pose challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in international trade.

The speakers argue that while e-commerce has provided SMEs with an opportunity to trade internationally, the access to tools, training, and systems necessary to meet these data requirements remains difficult and costly. This negative aspect highlights the need for support and resources to enable SMEs to effectively participate in the e-commerce market.

Another notable point raised is the drastic transformation of the e-commerce landscape. In the past, bulk shipments only required one data set and customs declaration. However, with the shift towards individual shipments in e-commerce, each product now requires its own data set and customs clearance.

The speakers argue that this change has made customs declarations more complicated and poses a challenge for the industry. The rapid growth of e-commerce and its future impacts are also discussed. It is mentioned that the business from e-commerce is expected to more than double, reaching $3.3 trillion per annum.

However, the exact consequences and implications of this growth are still not fully understood. This neutral sentiment suggests that there is a need for further research and analysis to fully comprehend the future impacts of e-commerce. In terms of data quality, it is pointed out that current e-commerce data is often unreliable.

The speakers argue that 18% of respondents report paying customs duties on international online orders that are too low, indicating a lack of accuracy in the data. Moreover, the cultural and language diversity, inconsistent standards, and data security concerns create confusion and inconsistency in the interpretation of e-commerce data.

Therefore, efforts to improve data quality and consistency are deemed necessary. However, it is also acknowledged that strict regulations and standards may not always be beneficial for the e-commerce industry. Enforcing more regulations could burden businesses and customers. Instead, the speakers propose global collaboration and a balanced approach that considers multiple objectives and higher standards.

This negative sentiment towards strict regulations underscores the need for a flexible and collaborative approach to regulation in e-commerce. Lastly, the negative impact of digitalization on the environment is highlighted. While digitalization has the potential to improve living standards, the speakers argue that it is currently contributing negatively to the environment.

The increasing demand for digital services is linked to an increasing share of Earth’s energy consumption, and wasteful behavior is observed. This raises concerns about the environmental responsibilities associated with pursuing more efficient and accurate data in e-commerce. In conclusion, data plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, security, and customs compliance of parcel delivery networks in e-commerce.

However, increasing data requirements pose challenges for SMEs involved in international trade. The transformation of the e-commerce landscape towards individual shipments has made customs declarations more complex. The rapid growth of e-commerce and its future impacts are still not fully understood.

Efforts are needed to improve data quality and consistency as the reliability of current e-commerce data is questioned. Balancing strict regulations and higher standards is important to avoid burdening businesses and customers. The negative environmental impact of digitalization is also a concern.

Overall, there is a need for further research, support, and collaboration to effectively navigate the complex landscape of data in e-commerce.

Arguments

Tony Magniston is the head of research at Cross Border Research Association, a Swiss based research institute focusing on supply chain security and trade facilitation research.

Supporting facts:

• Tony Magniston is introducing himself and the purpose of his organisation during the presentation

Topics: Cross Border Research Association, research, supply chain security, trade facilitation research

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The association is currently working on project Parsec aimed at countering the abuse of parcel and letter security for postal and express services for criminal and terrorist activities.

Supporting facts:

• Parsec is a 4.7 million euro project that will last 36 months

• There has been a massive increase in the volume of international parcels over the past two decades making it difficult to prevent crime and terrorism

Topics: postal security, express services, parcel

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The enforcement architecture developed involves a three-layer screening for imported international parcels, and data-driven risk assessment for the targeted parcels.

Supporting facts:

• The process will involve multi-energy photon-counting detector, X-ray diffraction and neutron-induced gamma-ray spectroscopy

• Facilities would be designed for optimal flow of parcels with selective controls for parcels that present the highest risk

Topics: parcel screening, risk assessment, customs compliance

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External data sources could add value to customs risk assessment in six identified ways, including enhanced cross-validation of information, early data access, and company information.

Supporting facts:

• Some identified sources include International Post Corporation, Orbis, Dan and Bradstreet, Universal Postal Union

Topics: customs risk assessment, external data sources

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Existing system collects price information and provides it to customers to determine appropriate value for imported goods

Supporting facts:

• Project with IBM developed a web crawling system to study price information

• Information collected from online platforms but not directly

Topics: e-commerce, custom declarations, importation

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Report

Tony Magniston is the head of research at the Cross Border Research Association, a renowned Swiss-based research institute that specializes in supply chain security and trade facilitation research. The association is currently undertaking a significant project called Parsec, which has a budget of 4.7 million euros and aims to address the misuse of parcel and letter security for criminal and terrorist activities in postal and express services.

This project comes as a response to the escalating volume of international parcels over the past two decades, which has made it increasingly challenging to prevent crime and terrorism in this field. To enhance parcel screening and minimize the risks associated with imported international parcels, the enforcement architecture being developed involves a three-layer screening process.

This process utilizes sophisticated technologies such as multi-energy photon-counting detectors, X-ray diffraction, and neutron-induced gamma-ray spectroscopy. The objective is to ensure the optimal flow of parcels while implementing selective controls for parcels that pose the highest risk. In addition to advanced screening techniques, the Cross Border Research Association highlights the value of leveraging external data sources for customs risk assessment.

Noteworthy sources identified include the International Post Corporation, Orbis, Dun and Bradstreet, and the Universal Postal Union. By incorporating external data, customs risk assessment can be further enhanced through enhanced validation of information, early access to data, and gaining valuable company information.

Männistö, a proponent of data-driven approaches to improve parcel screening, advocates for the use of external data sources, even going as far as suggesting that government agencies should be willing to invest in data access. This perspective acknowledges the potential challenges that arise from procurement rules, data privacy concerns, and data quality.

However, Männistö believes that utilizing data outweighs these barriers and presents significant benefits for improving parcel screening and overall security. Furthermore, an existent system has been developed, in collaboration with IBM, that collects price information from online platforms. The purpose of this system is to provide customers with the necessary information to determine the appropriate value for imported goods.

This contributes to efficient trade and ensures fairness in importation processes. Lastly, it is worth noting that Belgian customs may be particularly advanced in dealing with foreign online merchants. While no specific supporting facts were mentioned, this observation indicates that Belgian customs have likely implemented effective strategies and measures to address the challenges associated with cross-border e-commerce and maintain efficient operations.

Overall, the Cross Border Research Association, led by Tony Magniston, plays a crucial role in promoting supply chain security and trade facilitation research. Through initiatives like the Parsec project and the exploration of data-driven approaches, they aim to combat criminal and terrorist activities, enhance parcel screening, and support efficient trade practices.

The notable involvement of Belgian customs in dealing with foreign online merchants further highlights the importance of continuous innovation in adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape of international trade.

Arguments

There must be clear rules for e-commerce to ensure consumer’s rights

Supporting facts:

• People in Peru often distrust online marketplaces

• Legal frameworks from other jurisdictions can guide online marketplace regulations

Topics: E-commerce, Consumer Rights, Regulations

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Support to small and medium enterprises for digitalization is crucial

Supporting facts:

• Mercado Libre’s experience of 20 years can be used to help SMEs in their digitalization journey

Topics: Digitalization, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), E-commerce

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Institution promoting the development of e-commerce and digital payments is important

Supporting facts:

• Legal regulations for digital economy are being worked on in Colombia, Peru and Chile

Topics: E-commerce, Digital Payments, Digital Economy

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Fintech is key in enhancing financial inclusion and trust in digital transactions

Supporting facts:

• There has been a surge of fintech in Peru leading to greater financial inclusion for those outside the banking system

Topics: Fintech, Financial Inclusion, Digital Payments

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Report

The speakers in the given text highlight several key points regarding e-commerce, digitalization, and the development of the digital economy. They emphasize the need for clear rules and regulations in e-commerce to protect consumer rights. They argue that having well-defined guidelines helps establish trust and confidence among consumers.

The speakers also note that in Peru, there is often a lack of trust in online marketplaces, making it crucial to establish legal frameworks that can guide online marketplace regulations. This indicates that the speakers recognize the importance of consumer protection and aim to establish a reliable and secure environment for e-commerce.

Moving on, the speakers discuss the significance of supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in their digitalization journey. They specifically mention the experience of Mercado Libre, a well-established e-commerce platform with 20 years of experience. The speakers suggest that Mercado Libre’s knowledge and expertise can be used to assist SMEs in their transition to digital platforms.

This shows an appreciation for the potential benefits of digitalization for SMEs, such as increased market reach and improved efficiency. By providing support to SMEs, the speakers argue that the digitalization of businesses can be promoted, leading to overall economic growth and development.

In addition, the speakers highlight the importance of legal regulations and institutions in promoting the development of e-commerce and digital payments. They mention ongoing efforts in countries like Colombia, Peru, and Chile to establish legal frameworks for the digital economy.

This demonstrates an understanding of the need for a supportive regulatory environment to foster the growth of e-commerce and digital transactions. By having clear and well-defined regulations, the speakers argue that the development of e-commerce and digital payments can be facilitated, leading to reduced inequalities and improved economic growth.

Another point raised by the speakers is the role of fintech in enhancing financial inclusion and trust in digital transactions. They note that there has been a surge of fintech in Peru, which has contributed to greater financial inclusion for individuals outside the traditional banking system.

This suggests that the speakers recognize the transformative potential of fintech in expanding access to financial services and bridging the gap between the banked and unbanked populations. By enabling secure and efficient digital transactions, fintech can help build trust and confidence among consumers, further promoting the growth of the digital economy.

Lastly, the speakers stress the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to educate the population and encourage the adoption of internet-based transactions. They cite the example of significant progress made in Mexico through collaborations that have led to the digitization of small and medium enterprises.

This underscores the importance of cooperation between different stakeholders to drive the digitization of the economy. The speakers argue that by working together, both the public and private sectors can play a significant role in educating the population about the benefits of internet-based transactions and supporting the necessary infrastructure for digitalization.

Overall, the speakers present a comprehensive perspective on various aspects of e-commerce, digitalization, and the development of the digital economy. They advocate for clear rules and regulations to protect consumer rights, emphasize the support needed for SMEs in their digitalization journey, highlight the importance of legal frameworks and institutions, recognize the role of fintech in enhancing financial inclusion, and stress the need for collaboration to promote the adoption of internet-based transactions.

Their arguments are supported by evidence from different countries, indicating a broad understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and potential benefits associated with the digital economy.

Arguments

Peru considers the readiness assessment for electronic commerce of great importance

Supporting facts:

• The readiness assessment for e-commerce is the first in the LATAM region and Caribbean

• The assessment was supported by various institutions including ANTAC, SECU, Swiss Confederation and CEPAL

Topics: readiness assessment for electronic commerce, LATAM region, Caribbean

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Report

Peru recognises the significance of the readiness assessment for electronic commerce in the LATAM region and the Caribbean. This assessment, which is the first of its kind in the region, received support from various institutions including ANTAC, SECU, the Swiss Confederation, and CEPAL.

The report has been instrumental in evaluating Peru’s preparedness for e-commerce and has highlighted areas for improvement. The process of creating the report involved coordinating multiple institutions within the government of Peru. This collaboration has resulted in the efficient utilisation of resources and the development of synergies.

By pooling their expertise and resources, these institutions have produced a comprehensive and insightful assessment of Peru’s readiness for electronic commerce. Peru is committed to implementing the recommendations outlined in the report. These recommendations cover a wide range of areas, including enhancing internet usage, ensuring access to it, improving entrepreneurial capacities, and strengthening the legal framework surrounding e-commerce.

Peru also hopes for support from its partners to aid in the successful implementation of these recommendations. Furthermore, Peru recognises the potential of e-commerce to drive sustainable and inclusive development. It sees e-commerce as a crucial element in the country’s overall growth and development.

The emphasis is placed on the positive impact that e-commerce can have on both men and women, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in Peru’s economic progress. In conclusion, Peru views the readiness assessment for electronic commerce as a vital tool for evaluating its preparedness in the LATAM region and the Caribbean.

Through collaboration and coordination among various institutions, Peru aims to implement the recommended measures to further enhance its e-commerce capabilities. By promoting e-commerce, Peru intends to foster sustainable and inclusive development, ensuring that the benefits of this sector are accessible to all.

Arguments

UNCTAD has conducted an E-Trade Readiness Assessment for Peru.

Supporting facts:

• The report was launched a couple of weeks ago in Lima at a ceremony attended by significant dignitaries

• This is the first E-Trade Readiness Assessment undertaken in Latin America by UNCTAD

Topics: UNCTAD, E-Trade Readiness Assessment, Peru

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The E-Trade Readiness Assessment provided a comprehensive analysis of Peru’s e-commerce ecosystem

Supporting facts:

• The assessment highlights improvements in Peru’s digital connectivity infrastructure and its legal and regulatory frameworks for e-commerce

• Peru recently adopted the National Digital Transformation Policy and the National Digital Talent Strategy aiming to advance digital talent development and women’s participation in technology

Topics: UNCTAD, E-Trade Readiness Assessment, Peru, e-commerce ecosystem

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Despite progress, challenges remain, particularly those linked to digital disparities in terms of access to financing and the rural-urban divide in connectivity.

Supporting facts:

• Intrabank transfers through digital wallets represented 60% of total transactions in March 2023

• According to the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics, approximately 86% of Peru’sbusiness was informal in 2021

Topics: digital disparities, connectivity, access to financing, rural-urban divide

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Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs has been partnering with UNCTAD on promoting digital tools, digital instruments, and digital analysis

Supporting facts:

• Peru is a priority country of the Swiss Development Corporation

• Swiss Corporation is interested to support cross-border transactions and e-commerce

Topics: unctad, digital tools, promotion, economic affairs

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Peru has a clear gap in terms of its human development index, economic potential, and digitalization level

Supporting facts:

• Peru is a priority country of the Swiss Development Corporation

Topics: Peru, digitalization, economic potential

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Readiness assessment is a very important tool for Peru

Supporting facts:

• Peru is willing to go OECD membership road

• Readiness assessment could be used to feed into the OECD membership agenda of Peru

Topics: Peru, READINESS ASSESSMENT, OECD membership, digitalization

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Peru needs to work on access to finance and skills development

Supporting facts:

• Access to finance as one of the main problems in order to make economic actors participate in trade

• Senco and the Swiss corporation is interested to support cross-border transactions and e-commerce

Topics: Peru, financing, skills development, trade, economic activities

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Peru considers very important the activity of assessment and report about its readiness for electronic commerce

Supporting facts:

• Peru’s readiness for electronic commerce is the first in the LATAM region and Caribbean

• The report goes into detail about the challenges, opportunities, and potential of Peru in e-commerce

• The process of making the report has already positively impacted due to the internal coordination of various Peruvian government institutions

• The recommendations will include improving internet usage, the legal framework, and business capacities in e-commerce

Topics: Electronic commerce, Readiness assessment

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E-Trade for All is the base of UNCTAD’s work in e-commerce readiness assessments

Supporting facts:

• Between 2012 and 2022, there was a speed up of about 16 times in e-commerce in Peru

• Most of the enterprises selling online are in Lima, representing about 80% of turnover

Topics: E-commerce, UNCTAD, E-Trade

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There needs to be further investment in ITC services in Peru to achieve international standards

Supporting facts:

• $28 billion and $106 billion required as of 2038

Topics: Investment, ITC services, International standards

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There is a necessity to enhance consumer rights and data protection in e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• 40% of consumers don’t know about any institution protecting their rights

• 60% of consumers don’t know about any law protecting their personal data

Topics: Consumer rights, Data protection, E-commerce

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Local and foreign investment needs to be improved in Peru’s entrepreneurial ecosystem for e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• The amount invested in Peru’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is not reaching the expected levels

• 67% concentration of these activities still in Lima

Topics: Investment, Entrepreneurial ecosystem, E-commerce

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Peru’s e-commerce has a high growth potential, especially in the cross-border dimension.

Supporting facts:

• Peru accounted for 2% of total visitor traffic to marketplaces in Latin America and the Caribbean, making it the sixth largest market in the region.

• With 6% of e-commerce sales, Peru is the sixth largest market in the context of Latin America and the Caribbean.

• Only 5% of all the visits to the marketplaces in Peru originate from people abroad.

Topics: Peru, e-commerce, cross-border trade

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Peru needs to adopt the Uncitrao model law on e-commerce and e-transport records to enhance its cross-border e-commerce.

Supporting facts:

• None of the marketplaces in Peru currently allows for a foreign consumer to buy a product on a Peruvian marketplace and have it shipped abroad.

• Regulations in Peru are more restrictive than other Latin American countries, affecting its digital trade.

Topics: Peru, e-commerce, Uncitrao model law, cross-border trade

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Providing support to small and medium enterprises for digitalization

Supporting facts:

• For the past 20 years, they have developed their experience in this effort

• These tools can strengthen their digital payments

• Having clear rules for the games in the e-commerce is vital for consumers

Topics: Digitalization, E-commerce, E-payments

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The importance of building consumer trust in e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• One of the main obstacles in e-commerce in Peru is that people aren’t sure if these online sellers are trustworthy

• A legal framework could be established to give assurance to consumers

Topics: E-commerce, Cybersecurity

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The need for a legal framework to support e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• States can analyze how legal frameworks have worked in other jurisdictions using the available benchmarks

• This framework will ensure that the use of the internet and inclusion of other partners are for the development of marketplaces

Topics: Legal Framework, E-commerce, Internet

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The potential of e-commerce as an additional sales channel for micro and small enterprises

Supporting facts:

• In Mexico, there has been significant advancement and development of small and medium enterprises,

Topics: E-commerce, Micro and small enterprises

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Report

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) recently conducted the first E-Trade Readiness Assessment for Peru in Latin America. The assessment revealed positive developments in Peru’s digital connectivity infrastructure and its legal and regulatory frameworks for e-commerce. Peru has also adopted the National Digital Transformation Policy and the National Digital Talent Strategy to advance digital talent development and women’s participation in technology.

Despite progress, challenges remain, particularly in terms of digital disparities and access to financing. Intrabank transfers through digital wallets accounted for 60% of total transactions in Peru in March 2023. Additionally, around 86% of Peru’s business was informal in 2021, affecting the creation of an inclusive e-commerce ecosystem.

UNCTAD is committed to supporting Peru’s digital transformation and plans to assist in capacity-building initiatives, knowledge exchange, and stakeholder engagement activities. The Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs is partnering with UNCTAD to promote digital tools, instruments, and analysis for cross-border transactions and e-commerce.

The assessment highlighted the importance of improving internet usage, the legal framework, and business capacities in e-commerce. Peru is dedicated to implementing the assessment’s recommendations and actions to promote e-commerce. Further investment in ICT services and enhancement of consumer rights and data protection are also necessary for the growth of Peru’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Peru’s e-commerce sector has shown promise, accounting for a significant portion of visitor traffic and sales in Latin America and the Caribbean. However, there is untapped potential for cross-border trade, and adopting the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Commerce and Electronic Transport Records would facilitate its growth.

Peru also faces challenges in adopting electronic payment methods due to informality, account maintenance costs, and lack of trust in the financial system. Building consumer trust and establishing a legal framework are essential for the success of e-commerce. In conclusion, the E-Trade Readiness Assessment is a valuable tool for Peru’s e-commerce development.

Addressing challenges in digital disparities, access to financing, and regulatory frameworks will be crucial. UNCTAD’s support and collaboration with the Swiss Development Corporation will contribute to Peru’s digital transformation. The implementation of assessment recommendations, improvement of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and enhancement of consumer trust are essential for the growth of e-commerce in Peru.

Arguments

Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs has been working with UNCTAD to promote digital tools and analysis

Supporting facts:

• They have financed for the first time the analysis of digitalization in Peru

• Peru is a priority country of the Swiss Development Corporation

• Peru is a very dynamic country

Topics: UNCTAD, Digital tools, Partnership

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Digitalization is a potential source for growth and it should be a part of every intervention in Peru

Supporting facts:

• Peru has a clear gap between its human development index, economic potential and the level of digitalization

• Digitalization can bridge the geographical divide between Lima and the rest of the country

Topics: Digitalization, Growth, Economic development

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The real innovation comes from the private sector

Supporting facts:

• The private sector has the potential to leapfrog some of the challenges

Topics: Private sector, Innovation

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Report

The Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs has been collaborating closely with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) to promote the use of digital tools and analysis in Peru. Peru is considered a priority country for the Swiss Development Corporation, and this partnership marks the first instance of financial support and analysis for digitalization in Peru.

Peru is known for its dynamism and exhibits a clear gap between its human development index, economic potential, and the level of digitalization. Hence, digitalization is seen as a potential catalyst for growth and development in the country. It is believed that digital tools can bridge the geographical divide between the capital city, Lima, and the rest of Peru.

Moreover, digitalization plays a crucial role in Peru’s agenda to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). However, attaining OECD membership is regarded as a challenging endeavor, necessitating the investment of efforts into digitalization initiatives. Recognizing the private sector as a prime driver of innovation, it is acknowledged that they possess the potential to overcome certain challenges in the digitalization process.

Consequently, it is recommended to involve the private sector more extensively in the development and implementation of digital tools. Overall, there is a positive sentiment towards digitalization and its potential benefits for Peru’s development. The collaboration between the Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs and UNCTAD underscores the significance of digital tools and analysis in bridging the gap between Peru’s current situation and its economic potential.

It also emphasizes the importance of engaging the private sector in the digitalization process. As Peru continues to strive for growth and development, digitalization remains a key aspect of its agenda.

Arguments

Peru has potential to improve in e-commerce market

Supporting facts:

• Peru accounted for about 2% of total visitor traffic to B2C platforms making it the 6th largest market in Latin America and the Caribbean

• Peru accounts for about 6% of e-commerce sales in Latin America

• Peru is more restrictive than other Latin American countries in terms of digital trade regulations

Topics: E-commerce, Marketplace growth, Cross-border e-commerce

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Report

According to the analysis, Peru is emerging as a significant player in the e-commerce market within Latin America, accounting for approximately 6% of sales in the region. However, the country faces challenges due to its relatively restrictive regulations compared to other Latin American nations.

One noteworthy observation is that Peru’s digital trade regulations are more stringent than those of its counterparts. This creates obstacles for cross-border e-commerce, as only 5% of visits to Peruvian marketplaces originate from abroad. Additionally, none of the Peruvian marketplaces currently support international shipping for foreign consumers.

These limitations significantly limit the country’s potential for expanding its e-commerce presence on a global scale. The analysis suggests that Peru needs to adjust its regulations to be more aligned with its trading partners. By doing so, Peru can facilitate cross-border e-commerce and tap into its full potential in the global market.

This alignment could involve harmonizing regulations with other Latin American countries, easing restrictions on international shipping, and fostering partnerships that promote seamless cross-border transactions. Improving cross-border e-commerce has far-reaching implications for Peru’s economy and its progress towards sustainable development goals.

By enhancing its e-commerce capabilities, Peru can contribute to SDG 8, which seeks to promote decent work and economic growth. It can also support SDG 9, aimed at fostering industry, innovation, and infrastructure. In conclusion, while Peru shows promise in the e-commerce market, its restrictive regulations hinder its ability to fully tap into the potential of cross-border e-commerce.

Adjusting its regulations to align with trading partners and facilitating international shipping for foreign consumers are crucial steps towards improving Peru’s cross-border e-commerce landscape. By doing so, Peru can boost its position in the global market, contributing to economic growth and sustainable development.

Arguments

Peru has significantly progressed in e-commerce before the pandemic, but there are areas for improvement

Supporting facts:

• E-commerce in Peru has sped up about 16 times between 2012 and 2022.

• Most of the enterprises selling online are located in Lima, accounting for about 80% of the turnover.

Topics: e-commerce, Peru, digital transformation

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There are gaps in the legal and regulatory framework relating to e-commerce in Peru, with many consumers unaware of their rights.

Supporting facts:

• 60% of consumers do not know about any law protecting their personal data.

• 40% of consumers are unaware of any institution protecting their rights.

Topics: Peru, e-commerce, consumer protection, legal rights

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Report

Peru has made significant progress in the field of e-commerce, experiencing a remarkable 16-fold increase between 2012 and 2022. This growth is particularly concentrated in Lima, the capital city, where approximately 80% of the turnover from online sales takes place. Despite these positive developments, there are still areas that require attention and improvement.

Recommendations for advancing e-commerce in Peru include enhancing the national policy on e-commerce and digital transformation. This could involve updating the existing policies to align with the rapidly evolving nature of the digital marketplace and therefore create a more conducive environment for online businesses.

Additionally, establishing a national technical committee for electronic commerce, involving both public and private institutions, would contribute to the efficient development and regulation of e-commerce in the country. Expanding the telecommunications infrastructure is also crucial for further growth of e-commerce in Peru.

Investing in aligning access to infrastructure with international standards would enable businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively, benefiting both sellers and consumers. A significant concern lies in the existing legal and regulatory framework surrounding e-commerce in Peru. Many consumers are unaware of their rights, with 60% unaware of any laws protecting their personal data and 40% unaware of any institutions safeguarding their consumer rights.

Addressing these gaps and creating awareness among consumers about their legal protections is essential for promoting a trustworthy and secure e-commerce environment. To additionally develop e-commerce, there is a need to emphasize the development of digital skills and competencies. Currently, 65% of businesses in Peru do not invest in digital advertising, which hinders their ability to effectively reach their target audience in the online sphere.

Moreover, the level of investment in Peru’s entrepreneurial ecosystem does not meet the anticipated levels, limiting the growth potential of e-commerce in the country. To overcome these challenges, greater focus on nurturing local entrepreneurship and providing opportunities for digital skill development is necessary.

In conclusion, while Peru has made significant strides in the field of e-commerce, there are still areas that require attention and improvement. By enhancing the national policy on e-commerce, establishing a national technical committee, expanding telecommunications infrastructure, strengthening the legal and regulatory framework, and prioritising digital skills development and investment in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Peru can unlock the full potential of e-commerce and harness its benefits for economic growth and societal development.

Arguments

It’s critical to move beyond diagnostic analysis

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD has conducted over 35 assessments so far

• Peru is actively working towards OECD membership and strengthening its ties with partners in the Pacific Alliance

Topics: e-Commerce, Digital Economy, Capacity-building, ET-Ready

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There is a need to broaden the involvement of all stakeholders in the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Inter-ministerial cooperation, a whole-of-government approach to digital transformation will be key to the success

• The report was launched at the Government Palace in Lima in a ceremony attended by the Secretary General of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and the Vice Minister of Foreign Trade

Topics: Digital Transformation, e-Commerce, Stakeholder Engagement

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Report

The analysis emphasises the importance of moving beyond diagnostic analysis and involving all stakeholders in the digital economy to address rural-urban digital disparities. Peru is actively working towards OECD membership and strengthening its ties with partners in the Pacific Alliance.

These efforts demonstrate Peru’s commitment to economic growth and international collaboration. However, the analysis reveals significant challenges. There are notable inequalities in access to financing, which hinder the growth and development of businesses in Peru. The informal sector constitutes a large portion of Peru’s business landscape, with approximately 86% of businesses being informal.

This informality poses barriers to accessing credit and limits the formalisation of businesses. To bridge the rural-urban digital disparities and overcome these challenges, several actions are necessary. Inter-ministerial cooperation and a whole-of-government approach to digital transformation are crucial. This approach ensures that all relevant government departments work together towards a common goal, leveraging their expertise and resources.

By involving all stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector businesses, civil society organisations, and communities, a comprehensive and inclusive digital economy can be built. The findings underscore the importance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to industry, innovation, and infrastructure, as well as reducing inequalities.

Bridging the digital divide between rural and urban areas is essential for ensuring equal access to opportunities and resources. It is crucial to address the disparities in access to financing, as it directly impacts the ability of businesses to grow and thrive.

Furthermore, informal businesses need support and incentives to transition into the formal sector and benefit from the opportunities offered by the digital economy. In conclusion, the analysis highlights the need for proactive measures to move beyond diagnostic analysis and involve all stakeholders in the digital economy.

Peru’s efforts towards OECD membership and strengthening ties with the Pacific Alliance demonstrate the country’s commitment to economic growth and collaboration. Overcoming rural-urban digital disparities, addressing inequalities in access to financing, and formalising the informal sector are essential steps towards achieving sustainable development.

Inter-ministerial cooperation and a comprehensive approach are key factors in successfully navigating the digital transformation journey.

Arguments

There is a clear political will in Mauritania to further develop e-commerce and transform the digital landscape.

Supporting facts:

• The assessment report identifies the underdeveloped state of e-commerce and digital trade in Mauritania. However, there are favourable conditions to advance in these fields due to political will.

Topics: E-commerce, Digital Infrastructure, Political Will

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Mauritania has a need for strengthening coordination between institutions, developing nationwide e-commerce strategy and facilitating official statistics on e-commerce.

Supporting facts:

• Mauritania’s national strategy needs a set of diagnostics to inventory the situation. Compilation of official statistics is to be improved with the National Statistics Office.

Topics: E-commerce Strategies, Institutional Coordination, Data Management

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The infrastructure of landlines and internet services needs to be improved.

Supporting facts:

• The penetration rates of both landlines and fiber-optic networks in Mauritania are lower than needed for widespread e-commerce.

Topics: Internet Services, Infrastructure, Telecommunications

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Urge to improve the quality of e-services, facilitate foreign trade operations electronically and develop a system for electronic logistic.

Supporting facts:

• Customs clearance program will be increasingly digitalized and investment in digitalisation in different aspects of trade are being planned.

Topics: E-services, Foreign Trade, Electronic Logistics

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Legal and regulatory framework needs to be updated to fit the requirements of an e-commerce environment.

Supporting facts:

• The current statute, a 2018-2022 law on e-commerce, needs revision and updates considering e-transactions and data protection.

Topics: Legal Framework, Regulations, E-commerce

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The financial system needs to diversify and expand to support the e-commerce industry.

Supporting facts:

• The current offering of financial products is limited and diversified financial vehicles like venture capital are needed. Also, credit guarantee funds need to be made operational for small and medium-sized businesses.

Topics: Finance, E-commerce, Startups

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Report

Mauritania has displayed a clear political will to advance e-commerce and digital trade, providing a promising foundation for development in these areas. The presence of favorable conditions, driven by political motivation, indicates a strong commitment to transforming the digital landscape of the country.

This positive sentiment is supported by the assessment report, which highlights the underdeveloped state of e-commerce and digital trade in Mauritania but also emphasizes the potential for growth and improvement. However, several key areas need to be addressed to facilitate the progress of e-commerce in Mauritania.

One of the main challenges is the need for improved coordination between institutions. Strengthening institutional coordination plays a critical role in ensuring the effective implementation of policies and strategies related to e-commerce. It enables different stakeholders to work together towards common goals, leading to a more cohesive and efficient digital trade ecosystem.

Another aspect that requires attention is the development of a nationwide e-commerce strategy. This strategy should encompass various elements, such as setting clear goals and objectives, identifying priority areas for intervention, and outlining specific actions to be taken. Implementing a comprehensive e-commerce strategy will provide a roadmap for progress, guiding stakeholders in their efforts to boost the digital trade sector.

In addition, it is crucial to enhance official statistics on e-commerce in Mauritania. The compilation of accurate and reliable data is paramount for monitoring progress, identifying trends, and informing evidence-based decision making. The National Statistics Office should take the lead in improving data collection methods and reporting mechanisms to provide a solid foundation for evidence-based policymaking.

Infrastructure is also a significant consideration in the advancement of e-commerce. The penetration rates of both landlines and fiber-optic networks in Mauritania are currently insufficient to support widespread digital trade activities. Therefore, there is a pressing need to invest in improving the infrastructure of landlines and internet services, ensuring reliable and accessible connectivity across the country.

This will enable businesses and individuals to engage in e-commerce more effectively and efficiently. Efforts to digitalize customs clearance processes and invest in digitalization for different aspects of trade operations are in progress. Implementing a digital customs clearance program and embracing electronic logistics systems will enhance the quality of e-services and facilitate foreign trade operations.

These initiatives will streamline processes, increase efficiency, and reduce the time and cost associated with trade activities. To create an enabling environment for e-commerce, the legal and regulatory framework must be updated. The current 2018-2022 law on e-commerce needs revision and updates to accommodate e-transactions and ensure robust data protection.

Strengthening the legal framework will provide clarity and legal certainty for businesses and consumers, fostering trust and confidence in the e-commerce ecosystem. Furthermore, the diversification and expansion of the financial system are essential to support the growth of the e-commerce industry in Mauritania.

Currently, the range of financial products available is limited, hindering the development of e-commerce startups and businesses. To address this, the establishment of diversified financial vehicles, such as venture capital, would provide much-needed support. Additionally, operational credit guarantee funds for small and medium-sized businesses would enhance access to financing, enabling them to seize e-commerce opportunities and contribute to the overall economic growth of the country.

In conclusion, while Mauritania’s political will to advance e-commerce and digital trade is commendable, there are critical areas that require attention and improvement. Strengthening coordination between institutions, developing a nationwide e-commerce strategy, and enhancing official statistics on e-commerce are necessary steps towards creating a conducive environment for digital trade.

Moreover, investing in infrastructure, updating the legal and regulatory framework, and diversifying the financial system are all crucial aspects for supporting the growth and success of the e-commerce industry in Mauritania.

Arguments

Mauritania is keen on developing inclusive, reliable and high-performance digital transformation to improve the lifestyles and living conditions of citizens

Supporting facts:

• Mauritania is investing in digital infrastructures

• Fiber-optic network is now spreading across Mauritania with hundreds of millions of dollars investment

Topics: Digital Transformation, Citizen Welfare

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The government is striving to create an environment that favors e-commerce and digital entrepreneurship

Supporting facts:

• Mauritania has allocated $3 million to e-commerce development

• $4.5 million is allocated to facilitate e-payment systems

• Started a start-up project involving training and coaching in e-commerce

Topics: E-commerce, Digital Entrepreneurship, Economic Growth

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Report

Mauritania is demonstrating a strong commitment to digital transformation and e-commerce, with significant investments aimed at improving the lives of its citizens. The government is prioritising the development of inclusive, reliable, and high-performance digital infrastructures to foster economic growth and sustainable development.

One of the key investments in digital transformation is the expansion of the fiber-optic network across the country. Mauritania has allocated hundreds of millions of dollars to this endeavor, ensuring that fast and reliable internet connectivity reaches more areas. This investment will enable individuals, businesses, and institutions to access digital services and participate in the digital economy.

In parallel, the government has also earmarked funds for e-commerce development. Specifically, $3 million has been allocated to support the growth of e-commerce in Mauritania. This investment aims to create an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation in digital business ventures.

Additionally, $4.5 million has been set aside for the implementation of efficient e-payment systems, streamlining financial transactions and facilitating online commerce. Recognising the importance of nurturing the ecosystem for e-commerce startups, the government has launched training and coaching programs. These initiatives aim to equip aspiring digital entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the e-commerce sector.

By fostering a supportive environment for startups, Mauritania seeks to capitalise on the growing potential of the digital economy, while also creating job opportunities and contributing to economic growth. Furthermore, Mauritania highlights the need for international cooperation and investment in digital transformation and e-commerce.

In this regard, the country is actively seeking more investors to participate in the development of e-commerce infrastructure. By inviting foreign investment, Mauritania hopes to leverage external expertise and resources to accelerate the growth of the digital sector. This emphasis on international cooperation is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals), which underscore the significance of global collaboration for inclusive and sustainable development.

In conclusion, Mauritania’s strategic investments in digital transformation and e-commerce demonstrate a proactive approach towards enhancing the lives of its citizens and promoting economic development. The expansion of the fiber-optic network, allocation of funds for e-commerce development, support for startups, and emphasis on international cooperation all contribute to creating an enabling environment for the digital economy to flourish.

These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of technology and digital innovation to build a more inclusive and prosperous future for Mauritania.

Arguments

The Mauritanian government, through the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Innovation and Modernization of the Administration, has demonstrated ambition by taking bold measures to fully integrate the digital economy and electronic commerce.

Supporting facts:

• The Ministry of Digital Transformation, Innovation and Modernization of the Administration of Mauritania has taken bold measures to integrate the digital economy and electronic commerce

• The E-Trade Readiness Assessment aims to comprehensively analyze the challenges and opportunities in the field of e-commerce.

Topics: Digital Transformation, Electronic Commerce

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The objective of the e-Trade Ready Assessment is to formulate strategic recommendations so that Mauritania can thrive in this ever-evolving environment.

Supporting facts:

• The E-Trade Readiness Assessment was conducted by ANCTAD with the financial support of GIZ mandated by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.

• It aims to comprehensively analyse the challenges and opportunities in the field of e-commerce.

Topics: e-Trade Ready Assessment, Digital Transformation

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Report

The Mauritanian government, specifically the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Innovation and Modernisation of the Administration, has shown ambition and commitment towards integrating the digital economy and electronic commerce into the country’s development. They have taken bold measures in this regard.

To comprehensively analyse the challenges and opportunities in the field of e-commerce, the E-Trade Readiness Assessment was conducted by UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) with the financial support of GIZ (German Society for International Cooperation). This assessment aims to provide strategic recommendations for Mauritania to thrive in the ever-evolving environment of e-commerce.

Hamza Ould Bakar, a prominent figure, actively supports and encourages the implementation of the strategic recommendations formulated by the E-Trade Readiness Assessment. He emphasises the importance of engagement by technical and financial partners to effectively implement these recommendations. GIZ Mauritania, on its part, is dedicated to collaborating with UNCTAD to contribute to the implementation of the E-Trade Readiness Assessment Recommendations.

Overall, the Mauritanian government’s commitment to integrating the digital economy and electronic commerce, along with the support from influential individuals like Hamza Ould Bakar, indicates their recognition of the significant potential these sectors hold for the country’s growth and development.

By embracing these technologies and incorporating strategic recommendations, Mauritania can position itself to seize the opportunities presented by the digital economy.

Arguments

Implementation of effective addressing system is a priority

Supporting facts:

• UPU has knowledge and experience in modern addressing systems.

• Efficiency of overall government service requires a modern addressing system

Topics: Postal services, E-commerce, Government service

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Initiative for the collaboration, coordination with another ministry, mainly customs procedures

Supporting facts:

• Internal coordination of ministries is essential for improving service efficiency.

• Simplifying customs processes will facilitate both domestic and international trade.

Topics: International trade, Postal services, Government collaboration

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Improve financial services and collaboration with other financial institutions

Supporting facts:

• Collaboration with other financial institutions is essential

• This can provide services especially for underserved communities or rural areas.

Topics: Financial services, Postal financial services, Interinstitutional Collaboration

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Invest in training and capacity building.

Supporting facts:

• Reactivating training centers and organizing programs are important

• Capacity building is essential for improving services.

Topics: Capacity Building, Training, Postal services

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Report

The experts in the field have strongly emphasized the need for an effective addressing system to be prioritised in order to improve the overall efficiency of government services. This is because the Universal Postal Union (UPU) possesses extensive knowledge and experience with modern addressing systems, which can greatly contribute to enhancing the efficiency of government services as a whole.

The implementation of an effective addressing system is considered essential to ensure that government services operate smoothly and efficiently. Furthermore, the importance of collaboration and coordination with other ministries, especially in relation to customs procedures, has been highlighted. Internal coordination within ministries is essential for improving service efficiency, and streamlining customs processes can significantly facilitate both domestic and international trade.

The experts argue that initiatives should be taken to foster collaboration and coordination with other ministries, specifically in the context of customs procedures, in order to further enhance trade facilitation. Improving financial services and collaborating with other financial institutions have also been identified as key areas of focus.

Collaborating with other financial institutions is deemed crucial in order to provide financial services, particularly for underserved communities and rural areas. By improving access to financial services in these areas, it is believed that it can contribute to reducing poverty and promote economic growth, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of eradicating poverty (SDG 1) and promoting decent work and economic growth (SDG 8).

Investing in training and capacity building has also been highlighted as essential for the improvement of postal services. Reactivating training centres and organising programmes are seen as important steps towards capacity building, which can lead to enhancements in service quality.

By investing in training and capacity building, postal services can better meet the needs of the public and provide improved service delivery. In addition to these points, the experts have emphasised the need for a regulatory framework in the postal services sector.

Clear guidelines on pricing, quality standards, and consumer protection are necessary to ensure efficient service provision. The UPU has been acknowledged as having the capacity to cooperate in these areas, highlighting the importance of its role in establishing a regulatory framework for postal services.

In conclusion, the experts have identified several key priorities and arguments for the improvement of postal services and government service efficiency. These include implementing an effective addressing system, fostering collaboration and coordination with other ministries, improving financial services and collaborating with other financial institutions, investing in training and capacity building, and establishing a regulatory framework for postal services.

By addressing these priorities, it is believed that postal services can be enhanced, resulting in improved overall service delivery and public satisfaction.

Arguments

Fintech companies play critical role in fostering financial inclusion

Supporting facts:

• Fintech companies historically have always sought more financial inclusion especially on the African continent.

• Fintech services have to be further simplified and made available to a larger audience.

Topics: Fintech, Financial Inclusion

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There is a need for more simplification and democratization of financial services

Supporting facts:

• Historically more efforts are needed on what is called the democratization of financial services.

• These services must be made available to a wider public, a wider audience.

Topics: Financial Services, Democratization

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Regulatory framework and resources impact fintech development and scaling

Supporting facts:

• Mauritania is bound by government regulations which sometimes hinder the full potential of fintech development.

• Resource deployment is needed along with the right infrastructures.

Topics: Regulatory Framework, Resources, Fintech Development

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Report

Fintech companies play a critical role in fostering financial inclusion, particularly in Africa. These companies have always sought to increase financial access on the African continent. However, there is a need to simplify and expand fintech services to reach a larger audience.

This is essential to ensure that a wider range of individuals can benefit from the convenience and innovation offered by fintech solutions. Furthermore, there is a need for greater simplification and democratization of financial services to make them accessible to a broader public.

Historically, efforts to democratize financial services have been inadequate. By widening the availability of financial services, a larger number of people can participate in and benefit from the financial system. However, regulatory frameworks and resource deployment can pose challenges for fintech development and scaling.

In Mauritania, for example, government regulations sometimes hinder the full potential of fintech development. Overcoming these barriers requires proper resource deployment and the development of appropriate infrastructures. Despite these challenges, there has been a notable increase in the audience base for fintech services, indicating growth and acceptance.

For instance, in Mauritania, the number of fintech users has grown from around 10,000 to approximately 200,000. This significant increase demonstrates the growing popularity and adoption of e-service financial solutions. In conclusion, fintech companies play a crucial role in driving financial inclusion, and it is necessary to simplify and make their services accessible to a wider audience.

Efforts to democratize financial services and overcome regulatory and resource challenges are also essential for fintech development. The substantial increase in the audience base indicates the growth and acceptance of fintech solutions, underscoring their potential to transform the financial landscape.

Arguments

E-Trade Readiness Assessment of Mauritania is a significant milestone

Supporting facts:

• Mauritania’s assessment marks the 36th conducted by UNCTAD since 2017

• In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, online trade has witnessed unprecedented growth

Topics: Digital Economy, E-Trade

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Report

The E-Trade Readiness Assessment of Mauritania is hailed as a significant milestone in UNCTAD’s ongoing efforts to promote digital trade readiness worldwide. This assessment, which is the 36th conducted by UNCTAD since 2017, demonstrates their dedication to advancing e-trade readiness on a global scale.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the unprecedented growth of online trade has underscored the importance of assessing and improving e-trade readiness, particularly in countries like Mauritania. The positive sentiment surrounding this assessment reflects its recognition and relevance in the current global economic climate.

One notable aspect of the E-Trade for All initiative is its collaborative approach. In the case of Mauritania’s assessment, UNCTAD worked closely with the government, the Universal Postal Union (UPU), the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the US Institute for Trade and Logistics (USITRAL).

This collaborative effort demonstrates the commitment and dedication of multiple stakeholders towards enhancing e-trade readiness in Mauritania. The involvement of the UPU is particularly noteworthy as they support the implementation of a national addressing system in Mauritania, which aims to enhance the country’s logistics and delivery services, thus facilitating e-commerce and trade.

Additionally, the ITC’s contribution of support to Mauritanian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) underscores the importance of prioritising and strengthening the capabilities of SMEs in the digital economy. This aligns with SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. The assessment also shed light on the challenges that Mauritania faces in achieving e-trade readiness.

These challenges include the need to improve financial inclusion, enhance SME capabilities, establish a robust national addressing system, facilitate access to finance for e-commerce SMEs, and digitalise foreign trade procedures. Addressing these challenges is crucial for creating an environment that enables businesses to fully harness the potential of e-trade.

The donors who supported the E-Trade Readiness Assessment of Mauritania were also acknowledged and appreciated. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, through the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), provided financial and technical support. The involvement of multiple donors, including the UPU, ITC, and USITRAL, further highlights the importance of partnerships in achieving the SDGs, specifically SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

In conclusion, the E-Trade Readiness Assessment of Mauritania represents a significant step in UNCTAD’s efforts to promote digital trade readiness globally. The collaborative approach, involvement of various stakeholders, acknowledgement of challenges, and support from donors emphasise the importance of addressing these issues to leverage opportunities in the digital economy.

The assessment offers valuable insights and recommendations for enhancing e-trade readiness, thus contributing to the achievement of the SDGs.

Arguments

Shamika N. Sirimanne expresses pleasure being the moderator for the session in the E-Trade Readiness Assessment of Mauritania

Supporting facts:

• The assessment is organized by ANGTAR in cooperation with the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Innovation and Modernization of Mauritania

• It is supported by the financial contribution from GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development

Topics: E-Trade Readiness Assessment, Mauritania

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Shamika N. Sirimanne underlines the importance of the session as the launch as well as the beginning of the implementation process

Supporting facts:

• The session will include the presentation of the main findings of the ET Readiness Assessment

• The Minister for Digital Transformation is already onto the implementation phase

Topics: E-Trade Readiness Assessment, Implementation

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Shamika N. Sirimanne appreciates unrelenting efforts in digital transformation by Mauritania

Supporting facts:

• Mention of inclusive digital transformation effort

• Development must be youth-centered

• Implementations of steps and investments on infrastructure and payment system

Topics: Digital transformation, E-commerce, Cooperation

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Shamika N. Sirimanne acknowledges efforts of particular individuals in this collaboration

Supporting facts:

• Mentions the efforts of Mr. Machia and Ms. Bakar specifically

Topics: Partnership, Efforts

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Report

Shamika N. Sirimanne, the moderator for the E-Trade Readiness Assessment of Mauritania, expresses pleasure at being part of the session. The assessment is being organized by ANGTAR in cooperation with the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Innovation, and Modernization of Mauritania.

This initiative is supported by GIZ, with financial contributions on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Minister for Digital Transformation plays a crucial role in driving the digital transformation journey in Mauritania. Shamika N.

Sirimanne holds the Minister in high regard and appreciates his dynamism in pushing forward the digital agenda. The session involves the presentation of the main findings from the E-Trade Readiness Assessment, which marks the launch and the beginning of the implementation process.

This underlines the importance of the session, as it sets the stage for the practical steps needed to foster e-trade readiness in Mauritania. Additionally, the Minister for Digital Transformation is already spearheading the implementation phase, exemplifying the commitment towards achieving the goals set forth.

Shamika N. Sirimanne commends the participation and contributions of ANGTAR, UPU (Universal Postal Union), and GIZ. UPU has been a staunch supporter of the E-Trade for All partnership and has taken significant collaborative actions. Their involvement highlights the significance of partnerships and cooperative efforts in realizing SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

The discussions also emphasize the inclusive nature of digital transformation efforts, with a particular focus on youth-centered development. It is mentioned that steps and investments in infrastructure and payment systems are being made to support the implementation of digital transformation in Mauritania.

Shamika N. Sirimanne acknowledges the relentless efforts in digital transformation by Mauritania. This recognition reinforces the importance of sustainable development and the need for continuous improvement in e-commerce and digital transformation practices. Furthermore, Shamika N. Sirimanne supports the collaboration between Mauritania and other nations, highlighting the significance of international cooperation and public-private partnerships.

The acknowledgement of collaboration between Mauritania and other entities underscores the collective effort required in realizing SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. In addition to the main points, it is worth noting that Shamika N. Sirimanne also expresses appreciation for the efforts of specific individuals involved in this collaboration.

Specifically, Mr. Machia and Ms. Bakar are mentioned as key contributors to this partnership. Their dedication and contributions serve as an inspiration for others working towards the same objectives. Overall, the expanded summary highlights the positive sentiment expressed by Shamika N.

Sirimanne regarding the E-Trade Readiness Assessment in Mauritania. The emphasis on collaboration, inclusivity, and partnership underscores the crucial role of collective action in achieving sustainable development and fostering digital transformation.

Arguments

TV5plus, a francophone platform aims at increasing discoverability of francophone content

Supporting facts:

• TV5 plus was launched in 2010 and contains audiovisual content from Canada, France, and other European countries and African countries

Topics: TV5plus, Francophone Content, Media platform

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David Gueye is able to connect and promote the TV5plus as a viable Francophone Netflix

Topics: Netflix, TV5plus, David Gueye, Francophone Content

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Report

TV5plus, a francophone platform, was launched in 2010 with the aim of increasing the discoverability of francophone content. This platform offers a diverse range of audiovisual content from Canada, France, other European countries, and African countries, ensuring a rich viewing experience for users.

One of the main strengths of TV5plus is its positive sentiment, reflected in its goal to evoke more emotion and reveal captivating stories for viewers. The platform’s advertising campaign emphasizes the promise of “more emotion” and “more revelation,” showcasing its dedication to providing compelling and immersive content.

TV5plus also benefits from the support and promotion of David Gueye, who connects and promotes the platform as a viable Francophone alternative to Netflix. Gueye’s influence and connections help raise awareness of TV5plus and its unique offering of francophone content, giving it a competitive edge.

In conclusion, TV5plus is a francophone platform that has successfully established itself as a hub for diverse and engaging francophone content. Its extensive collection of audiovisual material, commitment to evoking emotion and revealing narratives, and the support of individuals like David Gueye contribute to its growing popularity.

For viewers seeking captivating francophone content, TV5plus presents itself as an attractive alternative to mainstream streaming platforms.

Arguments

The situation of language and opinion accessibility is worse than depicted

Supporting facts:

• Limited content can reach the public

• Majority of languages are kept out of access

Topics: Accessibility, Content Dissemination

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The rise of artificial intelligence poses potential threats to content accessibility and diversity

Supporting facts:

• AI usage may lead to further marginalization of certain content and opinions

• Artificial intelligence is at a critical crossroads

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Content Dissemination

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The speaker understands the troubles the music industries face due to the same experience with MP3

Supporting facts:

• Speaker was a musician and actor

• Met the person who invented MP3

Topics: Music Industry, Digital Revolution

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Francophone content is underrepresented on major platforms despite a significant number of French-speaking people.

Supporting facts:

• Francophones counts 300 million but only have 4 to 5% of internet content

• Major platforms like TikTok, YouTube have very little content in French

Topics: Internet content, Francophone, Digital media

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Developing countries have diverse generations of professionals with different digital maturities and cultural content appetites.

Supporting facts:

• There are about five generations of professionals converging in developing countries

Topics: Developing countries, Digital maturity, Cultural content

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Lack of African presence in statistical data and discoverability

Supporting facts:

• The speaker is the Chief of Digital Transformation in a bank from Congo-Brazzaville

• The speaker notes the absence of an African presence in statistical data and discoverability metrics

Topics: Digital Transformation, Diversity, African Content

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New trends emerging from Africa mixing local languages and culture

Supporting facts:

• Musicians are mixing French with local and cultural languages creating a new trend in music

• The speaker uses music as an example to illustrate the point

Topics: Culture, Music, African Content

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Improving the promotion and understanding of IT in the digital world

Topics: Digital literacy, IT Education

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Report

The speakers in the discussion tackled various crucial issues concerning language and content accessibility in the digital world. They brought attention to the limited reach of content to the public and the exclusion of the majority of languages. It was noted that a significant amount of content fails to reach the public due to various reasons, resulting in restricted access to information and ideas.

Additionally, it was highlighted that many languages are kept out of access, further exacerbating the problem of limited content availability and hindering inclusivity. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) was identified as a potential threat to content diversity and accessibility.

The use of AI in content dissemination can lead to further marginalisation of certain content and opinions. This poses a concern as it can contribute to the homogenisation of ideas and perspectives, leading to a lack of diversity and inclusivity in the digital sphere.

The speakers emphasised the need for responsible and transparent implementation of AI to ensure fair content access and prevent further inequalities. The discussion also addressed the underrepresentation of Francophone content on major platforms, despite a significant number of French-speaking individuals.

It was highlighted that Francophone content constitutes a small percentage of internet content, and platforms such as TikTok and YouTube have very little content available in French. This underrepresentation limits access to information and cultural expression for French-speaking individuals, perpetuating inequalities in the digital space.

The importance of prioritising and enhancing the visibility and accessibility of data was underscored during the discussion. It was suggested that intervention is needed to bring data from the back shop to the front window for better visibility. This approach would allow for a more comprehensive understanding of different perspectives and facilitate improved access to information.

In the context of developing countries, the speakers noted that there are diverse generations of professionals with varying levels of digital maturity and cultural content preferences. This observation highlights the need for tailored strategies and approaches to address the specific needs and interests of different groups within developing countries.

It was emphasised that a one-size-fits-all approach is not suitable in these contexts. The discussion also focused on the absence of an African presence in statistical data and discoverability metrics. This lack of representation hinders the recognition and visibility of African content and limits its reach to broader audiences.

However, the speakers also celebrated emerging trends from Africa, such as the mixing of local languages and culture in music. These trends showcase the richness and diversity of African culture and highlight the potential for unique and innovative content creation.

Lastly, improving the promotion and understanding of IT in the digital world was identified as an area for improvement. It was suggested that enhancing digital literacy and IT education can contribute to bridging the digital divide and improving accessibility to digital resources.

In conclusion, the discussion drew attention to several significant issues regarding language and content accessibility in the digital world. The speakers addressed the limited reach of content, the underrepresentation of various languages, the potential threats posed by artificial intelligence, and the need for responsible implementation.

They also highlighted the importance of prioritising data visibility, considering the specific needs of different groups, and addressing the absence of African presence in statistical data. The promotion and understanding of IT were identified as key areas for improvement in fostering inclusivity and access to digital resources.

Arguments

Discoverability of francophone content has been part of TV5 Monde’s objective

Supporting facts:

• TV5 Monde’s objective has always been to broadcast francophone content internationally

Topics: Francophone content, TV5 Monde, Content discoverability

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The digital world presents new challenges and hegemony of anglo-saxon platforms

Supporting facts:

• The majority of the market is owned by Netflix, Amazon, Disney and perhaps Paramount

Topics: Digital world, Diversity

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The issue of discoverability is not only about preserving cultural diversity but also about development

Supporting facts:

• Accessing and promoting global south content can help producers and artists make a living

Topics: Content discoverability, Cultural diversity, Development

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Promoting diversity and content from Global South countries is crucial

Supporting facts:

• Netflix can access and promote high quality productions from Anglophone Africa but not Francophone Africa

Topics: Cultural diversity, Global south, Content production

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The mandate for TV5 plus platform came from governments and donors at the Francophonie Summit held in Harrigan with the goal to become the Francophone Netflix

Supporting facts:

• The platform was launched in 2010

• It contains content from Canada, France, other European countries and African countries

Topics: TV5 plus platform, Francophonie Summit, Francophone Netflix

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TV5 plus platform promotes cultural diversity and values content from all Francophone regions.

Supporting facts:

• The platform offers a variety of content from across the Francophone world.

• Editorial strategy pushes forward equitably distributed content.

Topics: TV5 plus, cultural diversity, Francophone

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TV5 plus has plans to improve the platform’s accessibility to make it accessible for people with disabilities.

Supporting facts:

• In 2024, the platform intends to focus on improving accessibility for disabled individuals.

Topics: TV5 plus, accessibility, disabilities

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Investment in platforms where there are people, including paid ones

Supporting facts:

• They are compelled to promote content on platforms like TikTok, Google, Facebook etc because these are the platforms where the audience is

Topics: Digital Marketing, Social Media

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Francophonie should not just be limited to French content

Supporting facts:

• They consider that having francophone content that can be mixed with local languages

• They believe in promoting francophonie as a plural concept, not limited to French language only

Topics: Multilingualism, Diversity, Inclusion

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Report

TV5 Monde has always had the objective of international broadcasting of francophone content, and making such content discoverable is a key focus for the network. However, the digital world presents new challenges, with dominant platforms such as Netflix and Amazon leading to the potential hegemony of Anglo-Saxon platforms.

This dominance by a few major players may limit the discoverability of diverse content. Accessing and promoting content from the global South is not just about preserving cultural diversity but also about fostering economic growth. Producers and artists from these regions can make a living if their content is more accessible and promoted internationally.

Currently, Netflix has the ability to showcase high-quality content from Anglophone Africa but not from Francophone Africa, highlighting the importance of promoting diversity and content from Global South countries. David Gueye emphasises the significance of content discoverability, particularly from Francophone African countries, in facilitating further development.

One notable issue in these regions is the difficulty of organising film production in areas where electricity is not readily available. Improving the discoverability of their content would provide opportunities for both artistic growth and economic progress. To address these challenges and promote francophone content, the TV5 plus platform was launched in 2010.

Its aim is to become the Francophone equivalent of Netflix, offering a wide range of content from Canada, France, Europe, and various African countries. The platform’s editorial strategy is focused on equitably distributing content from all Francophone regions, thereby championing cultural diversity.

However, the TV5 plus platform also faces competition and struggles to improve its notoriety and discoverability. While the content is well-referenced in Google search results, more research and efforts need to be directed towards making the content easily discoverable to the target audience.

Additionally, there are external factors beyond the platform’s control that impact discoverability. In terms of accessibility, TV5 plus plans to improve its platform by 2024 to ensure it is accessible for people with disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity reflects their belief in promoting multilingualism and diversity within the francophone world.

They advocate for a broader understanding of francophonie that accommodates not only the French language but also other local languages. Investing in platforms where the audience is, such as TikTok, Google, and Facebook, is deemed essential for effective content promotion.

To reach a wider audience and increase discoverability, it is important to utilize these popular platforms. In conclusion, TV5 Monde and the TV5 plus platform have been dedicated to broadcasting and promoting francophone content internationally. They recognize the challenges posed by the dominance of Anglo-Saxon platforms in the digital world and the need to improve the discoverability of diverse content.

By showcasing content from the global South and ensuring accessibility, they not only promote cultural diversity but also contribute to economic growth. The TV5 plus platform’s objective is to become a Francophone equivalent of Netflix, underscoring the importance of inclusive and equitable content distribution.

However, efforts are necessary to enhance the discoverability and notoriety of the platform to fully realize its potential.

Arguments

Discoverability refers to the online availability of content and its ability to be seen by a vast audience

Supporting facts:

• The Quebec office for the French language in 2016 has defined it as the potential of the content to be discovered

Topics: Discoverability, Content, Online Availability

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Discoverability is related to the issue of the primacy of English content online and a trend towards linguistic uniformization

Supporting facts:

• There is a concern about the lack of diversity in what is being consumed online due to the dominance of English content

Topics: Linguistic Uniformization, English Dominance, Content Diversity

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The exponential increase in available online content is not reflected in the diversity of what is being consumed

Supporting facts:

• The issue is not so much the availability of diverse content, but the mechanisms and processes that do not allow for equal access to this diversity

Topics: Online Content, Content Diversity, Consumption Patterns

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The existence of numerous digital distribution spaces does not necessarily mean access to diverse content

Supporting facts:

• In 2018-2020 study, diversity was asked to predate access to information for content

• Francophone content remained embryonic in comparison to other languages in terms of proportion of recommended content online

• On the world’s 10 million most visited websites, only 3% offer content in French compared to 60% in English.

Topics: Content Discoverability, Digital Distribution, Internet

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Only 1% of a standard catalog of on-demand video is based on strategy or promotion strategy

Supporting facts:

• Only 1% of a typical on-demand video catalog utilizes strategy, promotion strategy, or value strategy

Topics: Video On-demand, Promotion Strategy

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There is a lack of Francophone and non-English, non-Francophone minority content

Supporting facts:

• Out of the 1% of strategically promoted content, there is very limited Francophone content and other non-English, non-Francophone minority content

Topics: Francophone Content, Diversity in Content, On-demand Video

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Users should have the power to discover and explore the majority of the content available on the catalog

Supporting facts:

• Presents the idea of users being able to ignore platform biases and explore 90% of the content catalog that is not typically recommended

Topics: User Empowerment, Content Discovery, On-demand Video

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Current research proposal aims to test a new model on TV5 that allows users to create their own discoverability pathway

Supporting facts:

• New research proposal titled ‘Discover Otherwise’ aims to test a model of content discoverability on TV5 where end users have more control

Topics: TV5, User Empowerment, Research Proposal

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The necessity to make artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms more explainable to regulate the ‘black box’

Supporting facts:

• AI and automated translations currently suffer from opacity

• The future of linguistic diversity depends on the ability to use technology for diverse contents, formats and supports

• Some institutions and international businesses are already compelling accountability and responsibility in AI usage

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Algorithm Transparency, Digital Literacy

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Importance of considering diverse opinions amid prevailing opinion polarization

Topics: Diversity, Opinions

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Automatic learning comprises more data in English versus other languages, resulting in disproportionate research findings

Topics: Automatic Learning, Language Diversity

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Report

Discoverability refers to the online availability of content and its ability to reach a wide audience. However, there is growing concern about the lack of diversity in the content being consumed online, primarily due to the dominance of English content.

This issue highlights the need for improving the mechanisms and processes that hinder equal access to diverse content. Algorithms play a crucial role in determining the visibility of content based on individual preferences, taste, or habits. They grant value to the content and recommend it as relevant or not, which can contribute to the lack of diversity in the content being consumed.

This has implications for linguistic uniformisation, as the online landscape becomes skewed towards English content, marginalising other languages. Access to diverse content is limited, particularly for Francophone and non-English, non-Francophone minority content. A study found that on the world’s 10 million most visited websites, only 3% offered content in French, compared to 60% in English.

This lack of representation underscores the need for political action and regulatory frameworks to promote the discoverability and accessibility of Francophone content. This may involve adapting the regulatory framework to include quotas for national content on platforms like Netflix and advocating for the discovery of local content through diplomatic and influential channels.

The limited discoverability of Francophone and non-English, non-Francophone minority content is also reflected in the limited strategic promotion of such content in on-demand video catalogs. Only 1% of a typical on-demand video catalog is based on strategy or promotion, further perpetuating the lack of diversity in consumed content.

To address these challenges, it is important to empower users to discover and explore the majority of the content available in catalogs. Users should have the power to overcome platform biases and access the 90% of content that is typically not recommended to them.

A research proposal titled “Discover Otherwise” aims to test a new model on TV5 that allows end users to create their own discoverability pathways. This would enhance user empowerment and ensure a more diverse range of content is accessible. Additionally, there is a need for greater transparency and explainability in artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms.

Currently, AI and automated translations suffer from opacity, and there is a growing demand for accountability and responsibility in their usage. AI and algorithm literacy become crucial for both the general public and policymakers to understand the potential impact and abuses of these technologies.

Language diversity is also a significant concern in the field of automatic learning. There is a disproportionate focus on English data, leading to biased research findings and limiting the construction of diverse knowledge. Advocating for greater language diversity in automatic learning can help overcome these limitations and promote a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of various languages and cultures.

In conclusion, discoverability plays a crucial role in ensuring equal access to diverse content online. The dominance of English content and the lack of representation for non-English, non-Francophone minority content are pressing issues that need to be addressed. Political action, regulatory frameworks, user empowerment, and promoting language diversity are key strategies in achieving a more diverse and inclusive online landscape.

Transparency and literacy in AI and algorithms also play a crucial role in promoting accountable and responsible usage.

Arguments

Discoverability is an underexplored and fundamental issue in the digital age

Supporting facts:

• Discoverability is defined as the capacity of content to be found

• Discoverability has political stakes as certain content may be prioritised or hidden by operators

• An example of discoverability issue would be relevant local content hidden by international platforms

Topics: discoverability, digital age, content creation, content accessibility

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Discoverability has implications for digital exclusion and language accessibility

Supporting facts:

• Digital exclusion may occur when certain content is not discovered as readily as others

• Language accessibility is impacted by the discoverability of content produced in certain languages

Topics: discoverability, digital exclusion, language accessibility

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Less than 6% of all languages are virtually represented on the internet

Supporting facts:

• Only 400 languages out of 7000 have web presence

Topics: Cultural diversity, Multilingualism, Language representation

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There’s a disproportionate power game in the digital content market

Supporting facts:

• 90% of the value-added of digital content is held by three countries, 67% by the USA, more than 20% by China and the rest of the world is sharing the remainder

• There are very few platforms that do concentrate the maximum value

Topics: Digital content market, Global digital compact

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Report

Discoverability is an often overlooked yet crucial issue in the digital age. It refers to the ability of content to be found by users. However, concerns arise regarding how certain content may be prioritised or hidden by operators, leading to political implications.

For instance, relevant local content might be concealed by international platforms, resulting in limited discoverability. This disparity in access and visibility of different types of content calls for better understanding and regulation of discoverability in the digital sector. Currently, only a select number of individuals fully comprehend the complexities of discoverability, creating conflicts between local and international content.

To ensure fair practices, it is important to prioritise diverse, high-quality content, regardless of its origin. Additionally, discoverability affects digital exclusion and language accessibility. When specific content is not easily discovered, it can lead to digital exclusion, preventing certain individuals or communities from accessing or engaging with it.

Furthermore, language accessibility is impacted when content in certain languages is less discoverable. This raises concerns about the representation of lesser-known languages on the internet, as only 400 out of 7,000 languages have a web presence. This lack of language representation hinders cultural diversity and the preservation of different languages and cultures.

Moreover, the digital content market exhibits a disproportionate concentration of power. The majority of the value-added in this market is held by a few countries, mainly the USA and China, while the rest of the world shares the remainder. This concentration raises concerns about fairness and equal opportunities for content creators and consumers globally.

To address these issues, there is a call for regulations and rules in the design and development of global digital content. The suggestion of a global digital compact has been made to establish guidelines and standards that promote fairness and equitable access.

This will create an equal playing field, allowing diverse voices to be heard and ensuring meaningful representation of different cultures and languages online. In conclusion, discoverability is a crucial issue that needs further attention. It affects political stakes, digital exclusion, language accessibility, cultural diversity, and the digital content market.

To create a fair and inclusive digital environment, understanding, regulation, and rules for discoverability are essential. Promoting diverse, high-quality content, equal language representation, and a balanced distribution of power in the global digital content market are integral to this process.

Arguments

Discoverability allows content in languages other than English to also be discovered and promoted.

Supporting facts:

• Language is also a perspective of the world.

• If we have knowledge only in English, we will arrive at visions of the world that will be uniform.

• Without discoverability, non-English cultural and creative industries will not be consumed and thus find it difficult to survive.

Topics: Discoverability, Cultural Diversity, Digital Access

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To promote discoverability, there needs to be support for content production in other languages and addressing the digital divide.

Supporting facts:

• Technologies are needed to support discoverability.

• Support for local cultural production and creative industry is vital.

• If there’s no internet access, one cannot access Francophone content.

Topics: Content Production, Digital Divide, Cultural Diversity

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Local production of cultural content being supported by Federation Wallonie-Brussels via grants towards cultural and creative industry and via co-productions

Supporting facts:

• The Federation, while in Brussels, is active in granting support to cinematographic, musical, and cultural production

Topics: Cultural Diversity, Digital Content Regulation, Creative Industry Support

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Federation Wallonie-Brussels is not acting alone, they follow rules and regulations at the EU level

Supporting facts:

• There are legislations in the EU framework

• Federation Wallonie-Brussels has taken advantage of EU’s levearage to impose rules on existing platforms

Topics: International Cooperation, EU Regulations

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Small players in the international territory need international solidarity and cooperation

Supporting facts:

• Federation Wallonie-Brussels is known for encouraging co-productions with Switzerland, France, Canada

Topics: Co-production, Cultural Diversity

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Investing in promoting content in minority languages on platforms like Spotify can value diversity.

Supporting facts:

• Valony-Brussels Federation creates playlists that give value to the people of Brussels, featuring music in various languages, not just French.

Topics: Diversity, Music Industry, Minority Languages

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Translation tools can be an aid in multilingual content, making it more accessible and discoverable for minor languages.

Supporting facts:

• Simultaneous translation of some content, if well used, can boost the discoverability of minor languages content.

Topics: Translation, Multilingualism, Language Preservation

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Report

The analysis of the speakers’ viewpoints emphasized the crucial role of discoverability in promoting content in languages other than English. They argued that if knowledge is limited to just English, it will lead to a uniform and narrow worldview. Without discoverability, non-English cultural and creative industries will struggle to survive.

To address this issue, support for content production in other languages and bridging the digital divide is essential. The Federation Wallonie-Brussels was mentioned as an example of an organization that supports local cultural production. Through grants and co-productions, they actively encourage and promote the creation of cultural content.

They also take advantage of EU regulations to enforce rules on existing platforms. Furthermore, they foster international solidarity and cooperation by facilitating co-productions with countries like Switzerland, France, and Canada. The speakers highlighted the significant impact that platforms have in contributing to local cultural production.

They noted that the Federation Wallonie-Brussels has imposed a 2.2% rate on non-linear platforms broadcasting in their territory, which contributes to the creation of local content. There are plans to increase this rate in the future. Additionally, the use of human editors plays a significant role in shaping the produced content.

User accessibility of content was another topic of discussion. The RTBF and other organizations collaborate to develop algorithms that enhance content discoverability. They are also planning to create a user-specific unique code to offer a personalized experience to users. Promoting content in minority languages on platforms like Spotify was cited as a means of valuing diversity.

The Federation Wallonie-Brussels creates playlists that highlight music in various languages, not just French, thus celebrating linguistic diversity. Translation tools were also mentioned as aids in making multilingual content more accessible and discoverable. It was suggested that well-utilized simultaneous translation of content could boost the discoverability of minor languages.

The overall sentiment of the speakers was positive, expressing optimism about leveraging technology and promoting cultural diversity. They recognized the importance of discoverability in fostering economic development, cultural diversity, and the survival of diversity as a whole. The analysis revealed a focus on the role of language, the need for international cooperation, and the potential of technology to bridge gaps and ensure equitable access to cultural content.

Arguments

AI generated content is not controlled by humans and carries risk of plagiarism, confidentiality and bias

Supporting facts:

• ChatGBT’s user base grew from 100 million to 104 million in a few months

• ChatGBT is used a billion times per week

• AI lacks transparency and explicability

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Data Privacy, Algorithmic Bias

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Use of AI can lead to propagation of harmful and discriminatory content

Supporting facts:

• AI often reproduces the biases present in its training data

• Generative AI can spread misinformation, racism, and hate messages

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Discrimination, Hate Speech

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Only 400 out of 7000 languages are on the internet

Supporting facts:

• According to UNESCO’s global atlas, there are only 400 languages on the internet out of 7000.

Topics: Internet, Languages

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UNESCO is committed on promoting content and diverse content in cyberspace

Supporting facts:

• UNESCO’s program, Information for All, aims at constructing inclusive and sustainable societies of knowledge

• The goal is to enable universal access to trustable information and diversified content as a catalyst for human rights, peace, and sustainable development

Topics: UNESCO, Internet, Content Diversity

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UNESCO’s Information for All program focuses on six sectors

Supporting facts:

• The six sectors are: information at the service for development, information literacy, preservation of information, info ethics, access to information and multilingualism

• The program offers a international platform for political dialogue and cooperation

Topics: UNESCO, Information for All Program, Multilingualism

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UNESCO’s program works to reduce digital gaps and promote multilingualism

Supporting facts:

• Tackling the principles of multilingualism in the National Development Plans and promoting universal access to information are key objectives

• The program works on preserving the documentary patrimony that exists in indigenous languages

Topics: UNESCO, Digital Gap, Multilingualism

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UNESCO has sustained several national-level projects to reinforce capacity

Supporting facts:

• In Jamaica, UNESCO supported the radio station broadcasting in indigenous language Abang

• The program also contributed to the improvement and preservation of documentary preservation of the local Maroon language

Topics: UNESCO, National Projects, Capacity Building

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The issue of black box in AI is not just technical but also a policy issue

Supporting facts:

• The problem is likened to media and digital platforms requiring transparency

• UNESCO promotes transparency of AI algorithms

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Policy

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AI regulations on business enterprises should be in place and their codes must be open

Supporting facts:

• Regulations could potentially help businesses

• Regulations could address issue of discoverability

Topics: AI Regulation, Business Enterprises

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The concentration of digital platforms poses a problem

Supporting facts:

• Five digital platforms dominate the world and are held by two countries

• Traditional media and channels had similar problems

Topics: Digital Platforms, Anti-monopoly Principles

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There is a need for the implementation of existing ethical principles on a global scale

Supporting facts:

• UNESCO already has a consensus on the ethical values

• Implementation through laws, national policy, legislation

Topics: Ethical Principles, AI Regulations

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Innovation and regulation are not contradictory.

Supporting facts:

• We need a very good, efficient, ethical regulation to ensure the innovation are being driven in a good direction to lead to the humanity development.

Topics: technology regulation, innovation

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Bad regulations can destroy the potential of innovation.

Supporting facts:

• Bad regulations are very much focused on the commercialization, monetization of the technology and they destroy the innovation’s value.

Topics: technology regulation, innovation

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A policy process must involve all stakeholders for inclusive growth

Supporting facts:

• Xianhong Hu emphasized on the involvement of all actors and government, academia, private sector in policy process.

Topics: Policy making, Inclusive growth, Multi-stakeholder participation

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Report

The analysis provided information on various arguments related to artificial intelligence (AI), internet languages, and the role of UNESCO in promoting content diversity and multilingualism. One of the concerns raised was the potential risks associated with AI-generated content, such as plagiarism, confidentiality issues, and bias.

It was emphasized that AI lacks transparency and explicability, which could lead to these risks. Furthermore, AI was seen as a source of harmful and discriminatory content. There is a growing concern that AI often reproduces the biases present in its training data, which can perpetuate misinformation, racism, and hate speech.

To address these issues, there was a call for multilateral regulation of the AI industry, as self-regulation was considered insufficient. The concentration of digital platforms and the AI industry was also highlighted as a concern because it can centralize wealth and limit the potential of AI in benefiting diverse communities.

It was suggested that regulations should be put in place to ensure transparency and openness in AI algorithms. Additionally, it was pointed out that AI regulations on business enterprises should be established, with their codes being open to scrutiny. The analysis also shed light on the limited representation of languages on the internet.

Only 400 out of 7000 languages were reported to be present online according to UNESCO’s global atlas. This raises concerns about the digital divide and the potential exclusion of certain language communities from online spaces. Amidst these challenges, UNESCO was recognized for its positive efforts in promoting content diversity and multilingualism.

UNESCO’s Information for All programme aims to construct inclusive and sustainable societies of knowledge, providing universal access to trustworthy information and diversified content to catalyze human rights, peace, and sustainable development. They focus on six sectors, including information for development, information literacy, preservation of information, info ethics, access to information, and multilingualism.

UNESCO’s work includes reducing digital gaps, preserving indigenous languages, reinforcing capacity through national projects, and contributing to the improvement and preservation of local languages. The analysis also highlighted the importance of implementing ethical principles and existing consensuses on a global scale.

UNESCO’s commitment to transparency and promoting ethical values in AI was lauded. It was noted that innovation and regulation are not contradictory; instead, efficient and ethical regulations must be in place to guide innovation towards benefiting humanity. On the other hand, it was warned that bad regulations focusing solely on commercialization and monetization can undermine the value of innovation.

In terms of policy-making, inclusive growth and multi-stakeholder participation were championed. It was emphasized that all actors, including the government, academia, and the private sector, must be involved in the policy process to ensure inclusive growth. Additionally, it was argued that every individual, not just the government, bears responsibility in policy-making, highlighting the need for commitment from all stakeholders.

In conclusion, the analysis provided insight into various arguments and concerns surrounding AI, internet languages, and UNESCO’s role in promoting content diversity and multilingualism. From the risks associated with AI-generated content to the need for multilateral regulation and inclusive policy-making, the analysis highlighted the importance of transparency, ethical principles, and addressing digital gaps.

The role of UNESCO in driving positive change and promoting diverse knowledge societies was acknowledged.

Arguments

The government of Mongolia attaches great importance to the development of e-commerce as a way to diversify the economy

Supporting facts:

• The government of Mongolia, in collaboration with UNCTAD, conducted an e-trade readiness assessment

• The assessment was conducted from 2022 to 2023 with results and recommendations anticipated during the launch event

Topics: e-commerce, Mongolia, economic diversification

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Gerelmaa Davaasuren asks about the role of the United Nations resident coordinator’s office in coordinating all activity to help Mongolia become a digital nation and develop the e-commerce ecosystem.

Supporting facts:

• Dapa Mishra is a friend of Mongolia, knows everything in Mongolia, and is very supportive for Mongolia.

• Dapa Mishra has close contact with the government officials and all the stakeholders, including the civil society.

• Dapa Mishra coordinates all activity of the United Nations and other international organizations in Mongolia.

Topics: Digital Nation, E-commerce Ecosystem, Mongolia, United Nations

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Report

The government of Mongolia, in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), has placed significant importance on the development of e-commerce as a means to diversify the economy. An e-trade readiness assessment was conducted from 2022 to 2023 to evaluate the country’s preparedness for e-commerce.

The assessment, supported by UNCTAD, aims to provide valuable insights and recommendations to further enhance e-commerce development in Mongolia. The results and recommendations from the assessment are expected to be unveiled at an upcoming launch event. Mongolia, being a landlocked developing country situated between two larger neighbors, faced substantial trade challenges, which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and border closures.

These difficulties had a negative impact on the economy, prompting Mongolia to explore e-commerce as a potential solution to achieve economic stability. By embracing e-commerce, Mongolia aims to overcome trade obstacles and build greater resilience. The United Nations resident coordinator’s office plays a crucial role in coordinating all activities related to assisting Mongolia in its journey towards becoming a digital nation and developing an e-commerce ecosystem.

Led by Dapa Mishra, the office maintains close contact with government officials and stakeholders, including civil society, to drive collaboration. Through these coordinated efforts, the United Nations, along with other international organizations, aims to support Mongolia’s digital transformation and foster the growth of e-commerce.

In conclusion, the government of Mongolia and UNCTAD have undertaken an e-trade readiness assessment to explore the potential of e-commerce for economic diversification. Despite facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and border closures, Mongolia recognizes the importance of e-commerce in stabilizing the economy.

The United Nations resident coordinator’s office plays a vital role in coordinating efforts to assist Mongolia in becoming a digital nation and fostering the development of the e-commerce ecosystem. This collaborative approach seeks to create a more resilient and dynamic economy for Mongolia’s future prosperity.

Arguments

Mongolia is committed to implement e-trade readiness

Supporting facts:

• More than half of Mongolians have access to the Internet

• e-Solutions program is aimed at equipping the population with digital skills

• Recent enactments like e-Signature Law and Law on National Payment System

Topics: e-trade, digital infrastructure, digital literacy, legal readiness

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Report

Mongolia is making significant progress towards e-trade readiness and promoting a tech-inclusive economy. With over half of the population now having access to the Internet, the country is actively implementing programs to ensure that its citizens have the necessary digital skills.

This emphasis on enhancing digital literacy will play a crucial role in enabling individuals to participate in the digital economy. Recent legislative actions, such as the e-Signature Law and the Law on the National Payment System, demonstrate Mongolia’s commitment to building a strong digital infrastructure.

These enactments provide a legal framework to support e-trade operations and facilitate secure online transactions. By enacting these laws, Mongolia is actively working towards establishing an environment where electronic transactions can be conducted safely and with confidence. Mongolia’s dedication to e-trade readiness is further highlighted by its ongoing efforts to develop an IT service export strategy in collaboration with the International Trade Center.

This strategy aims to facilitate the export of Mongolian IT services, creating opportunities for economic growth and entrepreneurship. Additionally, the country is exploring innovative solutions such as enhanced transportation networks and drone deliveries, which will not only improve efficiency but also enhance the overall e-trade ecosystem.

Mongolia’s Vision 2050 underpins its commitment to a tech-inclusive economy. This long-term vision serves as a roadmap for advancing technology adoption and ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital transformation. By embracing technology, Mongolia aims to drive economic prosperity, foster innovation, and create a society that fully embraces the benefits of the digital era.

Overall, there is a positive sentiment towards the advancement of e-trade and the digital economy in Mongolia. The country’s efforts in expanding digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, enacting relevant laws, and forging partnerships are crucial steps in creating an enabling environment for e-trade.

With its commitment to a tech-inclusive economy, Mongolia is poised to unlock the economic potential of the digital age and create opportunities for its citizens to thrive in the global marketplace.

Arguments

In Mongolia, majority of e-commerce activities are domestic and centered in the capital. E-commerce hasn’t picked up on the cross-border yet

Supporting facts:

• Most online shopping in Mongolia occurs in the capital, with usage of domestic and international third-party marketplaces. Around 500 responses were collected during the study period of e-trade readiness

Topics: Mongolia, E-commerce, Cross-border e-commerce

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ICT infrastructure in Mongolia is a national priority but requires significant improvements

Supporting facts:

• ICT infrastructure investments are increasing but not specifically encouraged. Connectivity is insufficient, especially in rural areas and cost is a major barrier. Despite 3G, 4G and possibly impending 5G deployment, they are likely to be limited to the capital

Topics: Mongolia, ICT infrastructure, E-commerce

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The need for increased financial literacy and diversifying investment options for e-commerce in Mongolia

Supporting facts:

• Most Mongolian SME’s engaged in e-commerce activities are self-financed. This lack of financial backing leads to a short lifespan (less than 3 years) of these startups. Despite existing financing options, the awareness is low

Topics: Mongolia, Investment, E-commerce

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Report

The e-commerce sector in Mongolia faces numerous challenges, according to a study. The majority of online shopping activities in the country are domestic and primarily centred in the capital city. Cross-border e-commerce has not yet gained momentum in Mongolia. One of the major issues highlighted by the study is the lack of a comprehensive vision or roadmap for the development of e-commerce.

While the country has various strategies and policies related to e-commerce, there is a clear absence of a well-defined plan to advance this sector. High-level political support is identified as a crucial factor for the development of e-commerce in Mongolia.

Despite the presence of strategies and policies, the study points out that there is a need for clear political backing to drive the growth of the sector. Another significant challenge faced by Mongolia is the inadequacy of its ICT infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.

Despite increasing investments in ICT infrastructure, connectivity remains insufficient in remote regions. The high cost of connectivity is also identified as a major barrier to the development of e-commerce. Although 3G, 4G, and possibly impending 5G deployments are expected, their availability is likely to be limited to the capital city.

Trade logistics and facilitation present significant hurdles for the e-commerce sector in Mongolia. The vast geography of the country and laborious customs clearance processes make cross-border e-commerce particularly challenging. Additionally, the presence of multiple ununified addressing systems further complicates deliveries.

The study also highlights the financial challenges faced by Mongolian SMEs engaged in e-commerce activities. Most of these SMEs are self-financed, resulting in a short lifespan for startups, typically less than three years. Despite existing financing options, there is a lack of awareness about them, further hindering the growth of e-commerce.

Furthermore, there is a larger issue of public awareness regarding the laws regulating e-commerce in Mongolia. According to the study, around 90% of Mongolians are unaware of the laws applicable to e-commerce, indicating a significant lack of trust in the sector.

This lack of awareness raises concerns about consumer protection and highlights the need for improving transparency and education in this regard. In conclusion, the e-commerce sector in Mongolia faces several challenges. The lack of a comprehensive vision or roadmap, inadequate ICT infrastructure, trade logistics and facilitation hurdles, financial constraints, and limited public awareness about e-commerce laws are the key areas that need to be addressed to foster the growth of this sector in Mongolia.

Increased financial literacy, diversification of investment options, and the provision of political support are crucial in overcoming these challenges and unlocking the full potential of e-commerce in the country.

Arguments

EBRD is committed to support Mongolia in realizing its Vision 2050 via digitalization and has identified fixed-line broadband infrastructure and access to finance as major bottlenecks

Supporting facts:

• EBRD has invested 2.3 billion euros, 75% of it to the private sector in Mongolia since 2006

• They have signed an MOU with the Ministry of Digital Development and Communication to formalize this commitment

• Only 11% of Mongolia’s population is connected via fixed lines while mobile has high penetration

• A third of the businesses cite inadequate infrastructure as a key reason not to invest in e-commerce solutions

• EBRD offers direct finance, credit lines and advisory services through SME local currency program

Topics: Digital Transformation, EBRD, Broadband Infrastructure, Access to Finance, Vision 2050

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Report

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has been a significant investor in Mongolia since 2006, having contributed €2.3 billion to the country’s development. The bank has focused on supporting the private sector, with 75% of their investments directed towards this sector.

To solidify their commitment to digitalization, the EBRD has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Digital Development and Communication in Mongolia. One of the major challenges that Mongolia faces is low connectivity rates, with only 11% of the population having access to fixed lines.

In contrast, mobile penetration is significantly higher. This limited connectivity is seen as an obstacle for businesses looking to invest in e-commerce solutions. In fact, a third of businesses in Mongolia cite inadequate infrastructure as a key reason for not pursuing e-commerce opportunities.

Recognising this bottleneck, the EBRD has identified fixed-line broadband infrastructure as a major area where support is needed. To address these challenges, the EBRD offers several avenues of support. Through their SME local currency programme, they provide direct finance, credit lines, and advisory services to businesses in Mongolia.

This programme is part of the bank’s broader efforts to foster economic growth and innovation in the country. Julia Anderson, a prominent advocate, fully supports the EBRD’s initiatives in Mongolia. She specifically highlights the importance of extending the bank’s investments to young innovative companies.

Additionally, she emphasises the need for expanding broadband rollout throughout the country. Given the EBRD’s track record in investing in broadband infrastructure internationally, Anderson believes that the bank is well-positioned to help Mongolia overcome its connectivity challenges. In conclusion, the EBRD’s commitment to supporting Mongolia in realising its Vision 2050 through digitalisation is commendable.

Recognising the barriers posed by inadequate fixed-line infrastructure and limited access to finance, the EBRD offers direct support to businesses in Mongolia through their SME local currency programme. Julia Anderson’s endorsement further emphasises the importance of investing in young innovative companies and expanding broadband rollout to drive economic growth and foster innovation in Mongolia.

Arguments

The national export strategy for Mongolia is primarily focused on the non-mining sectors. E-commerce is a natural opportunity for small businesses looking to engage in international trade, improving their operational efficiency and generating new market linkages. Despite the constraints and challenges, approximately 30% of small businesses in Mongolia are already using e-commerce, especially within emerging sectors such as IT services.

Supporting facts:

• 60% of small businesses in Mongolia have between 1 and 9 employees

• Approximately 30% of small businesses are already engaged in e-commerce

• E-commerce can improve operational efficiency like inventory management and addressing new customer needs

• New emerging sectors such as IT services can utilize e-commerce to build new market linkages.

Topics: National Export Strategy, E-commerce, Small Businesses, IT services

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Report

The national export strategy of Mongolia primarily focuses on non-mining sectors and acknowledges the potential of e-commerce for small businesses in engaging in international trade. Approximately 30% of small businesses in Mongolia are already utilizing e-commerce, particularly in emerging sectors like IT services.

This adoption of e-commerce is driven by the recognition that it can improve operational efficiency and create new market linkages. However, small businesses in Mongolia face constraints and challenges when it comes to embracing e-commerce. These include logistical issues, difficulties in trade facilitation, and a lack of necessary skills.

Solutions can be found to overcome these obstacles, such as the development of digital public goods that provide specific knowledge on e-commerce practices and international trade. To address the limited capacities of small businesses, it is crucial to focus on skills development.

Data from the Mongolian Chamber of Commerce highlights the prevalence of microenterprises among small businesses, emphasizing the need to support them in acquiring the skills necessary for successful engagement in e-commerce and international trades. The concept of digital public goods as a solution becomes significant in bridging the skills gap of small businesses.

By offering accessible and tailored resources, digital public goods empower small businesses to overcome trade-related challenges and fully leverage the benefits of e-commerce and international trade. It is important to note that there is a mixed sentiment regarding the current state of e-commerce adoption among small businesses in Mongolia.

While some businesses have embraced e-commerce, others still face difficulties due to various constraints. Continued efforts and support are necessary to foster a broader adoption of e-commerce practices among small businesses in Mongolia. In conclusion, the national export strategy of Mongolia recognizes the potential of e-commerce in non-mining sectors, particularly for small businesses.

Approximately 30% of small businesses already engage in e-commerce, but challenges such as logistical issues, trade facilitation problems, and skills development needs persist. Strategies such as the development of digital public goods can help overcome these obstacles and promote broader adoption of e-commerce practices.

Continued support is crucial to enable small businesses in Mongolia to fully benefit from e-commerce and international trade opportunities.

Arguments

UNCTAD is committed to supporting Mongolia in its journey towards digital transformation and embracing digital era

Supporting facts:

• Mongolia has internet accessibility of 84.3% and 4.8 million mobile connections, mostly in urban areas

• A UN joint program on digital transformation has been submitted under the SDG Fund for Mongolia

• Mongolia is developing a national e-commerce strategy

Topics: digital transformation, e-trade readiness, digital strategy development

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Mongolia needs to tackle challenges like rural connectivity, internet awareness and literacy, and last mile access

Topics: rural connectivity, digital literacy, digital divide

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Report

Mongolia is actively pursuing digital transformation and e-commerce development, with a particular focus on improving internet accessibility and increasing mobile connections in urban areas. Currently, Mongolia has an internet accessibility rate of 84.3% and 4.8 million mobile connections, primarily concentrated in urban areas.

This indicates a strong foundation for the country to build on in its digital journey. To support Mongolia’s digital transformation, a joint program on digital transformation has been submitted under the SDG Fund. This is a positive step towards securing the necessary resources and expertise to drive the country’s digital agenda forward.

The commitment of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in assisting Mongolia with its digital transformation signifies the global recognition of the importance of embracing the digital era. Efforts to achieve e-commerce development in Mongolia are being carried out in collaboration with multiple stakeholders.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications have joined forces to assess e-trade readiness in the country. This assessment involves the active participation of key national stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach.

Additionally, international organizations have come together to contribute to this project, highlighting the importance of cross-cutting cooperation and multi-stakeholder conversations in achieving digital transformation and e-commerce development. This collaborative approach acknowledges that the involvement of various stakeholders will be crucial in successfully implementing digital initiatives and strategies.

However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. Mongolia faces issues such as rural connectivity, internet literacy, and last-mile access. These challenges are essential to tackle to ensure that everyone, regardless of their location or level of digital literacy, can benefit from the country’s digital advancements.

Bridging the digital divide and promoting internet awareness and literacy will be key in ensuring that the benefits of digital transformation are accessible to all. Furthermore, embracing a digital economy has the potential to help Mongolia diversify from its commodity-based economy.

By harnessing the opportunities presented by digital transformation, Mongolia can promote economic growth and generate new avenues for employment. The E-Trade Readiness Assessment can play a vital role in providing policy recommendations and guidance to accelerate Mongolia’s digital transformation, enabling the country to leverage its digital potential effectively.

In conclusion, Mongolia is making notable progress towards digital transformation and e-commerce development. With a focus on improving internet accessibility, involving multiple stakeholders, and addressing challenges such as rural connectivity and the digital divide, the country is positioning itself to embrace the digital era.

The shift towards a digital economy also presents an opportunity for Mongolia to diversify its economy and drive economic growth. The support and commitment from UNCTAD, along with the involvement of various stakeholders, will be crucial in ensuring the success of Mongolia’s digital journey.

Arguments

Digitalization is recognized as a cross-cutting enabler for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

Supporting facts:

• Almost all governments, United Nations agencies and development partners are developing and implementing projects and programs in digitalization.

Topics: Digitalization, Sustainable Development Goals

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Efforts in digitalization are bringing limited impacts due to lack of digital cooperation and coordination.

Supporting facts:

• Entities are implementing their work in silos, leading to a high chance of duplication of efforts and a lost opportunity for building synergy.

Topics: Digitalization, Cooperation, Coordination

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United Nations resident coordinators and their offices play a key role in coordinating digital transformation.

Supporting facts:

• As the United Nations resident coordinator in Mongolia, Tapan Mishra coordinated the cooperation between the Ministry, UNTAD, and the UN Mongolia to build synergy by jointly organizing series of digitalization activities, including the launch of Mongolia ET Ready Assessment Report, the 2023 Global Digital Dialogue.

Topics: United Nations, Digital Transformation, Coordination

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Report

Digitalisation is widely recognised as a crucial factor in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Governments, United Nations agencies, and development partners across the globe are actively engaged in developing and implementing projects and programmes in digitalisation. It is understood that digitalisation has the potential to act as a cross-cutting enabler for the successful attainment of the SDGs.

However, despite the efforts in digitalisation, there is a notable limitation in the impact being achieved. This limitation can be attributed to a lack of digital cooperation and coordination among different entities. Many organisations are working independently, resulting in duplicated efforts and missed opportunities for collaboration.

This siloed approach hampers the potential synergy that can be created through effective digital cooperation and coordination. To address this issue, it is crucial to enhance digital cooperation and coordination among all relevant stakeholders. United Nations resident coordinators and their offices play a significant role in this regard.

In the case of Mongolia, for example, Tapan Mishra, the United Nations resident coordinator, successfully coordinated cooperation between the Ministry, UNTAD, and the UN Mongolia. This collaboration led to the organisation of various digitalisation activities, including the launch of the Mongolia ET Ready Assessment Report and the 2023 Global Digital Dialogue.

Such joint efforts demonstrate the importance of United Nations resident coordinators in coordinating digital transformation and fostering synergy amongst different entities. Furthermore, proactive engagement with all relevant players in the field of digitalisation is essential. Regular meetings with relevant ministries can help address emerging issues and unlock potential opportunities for cooperation.

This proactive approach ensures that all stakeholders are involved and that collaborative efforts are maximised, leading to more significant and effective outcomes in digitalisation. In conclusion, digitalisation is widely recognised as a critical enabler for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

However, the limited impact being achieved in digitalisation is largely due to a lack of digital cooperation and coordination. United Nations resident coordinators and proactive engagement with relevant players are essential in coordinating digital transformation, fostering collaboration, and ultimately achieving substantial progress towards the SDGs.

Arguments

The project review and implementation process takes too long and aspects may become irrelevant due to technological advancements in the digitalization sector.

Supporting facts:

• Takes around two years to prepare, assess, and then start the implementation

• Several digital projects in Tajikistan are implemented in collaboration with COICA and the Korean government

Topics: Digitalization, Project Review, Project Implementation, International Cooperation

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Korean government has possibly developed API integration standards to facilitate business integration.

Topics: API integration standards, Digitalization, Korean government, business integration

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There is a lack of coordination and harmonization among different governmental departments when it comes to digital policies.

Topics: Digital Economy, E-Procurement, Content Moderation, Competition, Data Privacy

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The audience wants to know if the Korean government is concerned about AI replacing people or if they view it as a chance

Topics: Korean Government, AI, Job displacement

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Report

The project review and implementation process in the digitalization sector has been criticised for being slow, which may lead to potential irrelevance due to rapid technological advancements. It typically takes around two years to prepare, assess, and start implementing digital projects, compromising their effectiveness in the fast-paced digital world.

Collaborative efforts between Tajikistan, the Coalition of International Cooperation for Afghanistan (COICA), and the Korean government have resulted in the implementation of various digital projects. However, there are concerns that other donors are able to fund and execute similar projects more quickly.

The Korean government, renowned for its expertise in the digitalization sector, has possibly developed API integration standards to facilitate business integration. Ruth Baitsepi, the head of the Digitalization and Innovation Hub at the Bank of Botswana, is interested in the prospect of the Korean government sharing these standards with other jurisdictions, such as Botswana, to enhance business integration and foster economic growth.

However, there is a worrying lack of coordination and harmonization among different governmental departments when it comes to digital policies. This lack of coordination hampers the effective implementation and enforcement of digital regulations. Countries like Korea and India are creating their own laws to regulate various aspects of the digital economy; however, they face challenges in harmonising these laws across departments.

This lack of coordination may undermine the effectiveness of digital policies and hinder the growth and development of the digital economy. The audience is curious about the Korean government’s stance on artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on employment.

It is unclear whether the Korean government views AI as a potential threat, leading to job displacement, or if they perceive it as an opportunity for economic growth and the creation of new job roles. In summary, there is a need to address the slow project review and implementation process in the digitalization sector to prevent potential irrelevance due to technological advancements.

Greater coordination and harmonization among different governmental departments are necessary to ensure the effectiveness of digital policies and regulations. Furthermore, there is a need for clarity on the Korean government’s perspective regarding AI and its potential impact on employment.

Arguments

MyData in the public sector provides citizens’ administrative information held by administrative public institutions

Supporting facts:

• The service adheres to Article 20 of the EU GDPR, the right to data portability

• The Civil Partitions Treatment Act and Electronic Government Act protect citizens’ rights to transfer their data

Topics: Data Management, Digital Government

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The number of services utilizing APIs for MyData in the public sector is rapidly increasing

Supporting facts:

• As of now, there are 101 types of services that use the APIs

• The services are mainly in administrative, public, and financial institutions

Topics: APIs, Data Transfer

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MyData in the public sector is contributing to innovation and new data-driven industries

Supporting facts:

• Automating service providers’ processing of tasks allows room for innovation

• It helps to increase activities and contributes to new industries using data

Topics: Data-Driven Innovation, Digital Economy

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Mr. Yang plans to increase services that use public MyData by conducting demand surveys on administrative agencies, public institutions, and private sector entities.

Supporting facts:

• Public MyData is in its initial stage

• Expansion of personal information is being considered

Topics: Public MyData, Demand Surveys, Digital Services

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AI could be a threat or an opportunity depending on how it’s used

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Employment

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Report

The implementation of MyData in the public sector has been widely regarded as a positive move. This digital service aims to provide citizens with control over their data held by administrative public institutions. It adheres to Article 20 of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring citizens’ right to data portability.

Legislation, such as the Civil Partitions Treatment Act and the Electronic Government Act, safeguards citizens’ rights to transfer their data. One of the key benefits of MyData in the public sector is the increase in convenience and efficiency for citizens.

It allows individuals to have secure control over their own data and enhances the convenience of using various services. This streamlines processes and reduces bureaucratic hurdles. The automatic processing rate has shown a significant 11% increase, leading to accelerated task processing.

Furthermore, the implementation of MyData in the public sector fosters innovation and drives the development of new data-driven industries. Automating service providers’ processing tasks creates room for innovation, increases activities, and supports the emergence of new industries that thrive on data.

APIs play a crucial role in MyData, with 101 types of services utilizing them. These services are mainly offered by administrative, public, and financial institutions. The increasing adoption of APIs reflects the rapid expansion and integration of MyData into various sectors, supporting the development of a data-driven society.

Regarding public MyData, expansion plans are underway to amplify the scope and reach of the initiative. Demand surveys targeting administrative agencies, public institutions, and private sector entities are being conducted to expand personal information and ensure that more individuals can benefit from secure data access and management.

Shifting focus to Artificial Intelligence (AI), a neutral stance is observed. The way AI is utilized can determine whether it becomes a threat or an opportunity. While acknowledging its potential to enhance productivity and drive innovation, concerns exist regarding its impact on employment and societal well-being.

Responsible use of AI is essential to harness its full potential while mitigating negative consequences. In conclusion, the implementation of MyData in the public sector has proven to be a positive development. It offers citizens control over their data, enhances convenience, and aligns with privacy and data protection principles.

Additionally, MyData contributes to innovation by enabling automation and generating new opportunities in data-driven industries. As adoption continues to expand, further advancements in the public sector and a more efficient and citizen-centric digital society are expected.

Arguments

CONAPS is an effective tool for countermeasure against collusion and corruption, saving 8 trillion won a year by shifting to electronic procurement

Supporting facts:

• CONAPS stands for Korea Online E-Procurement System

• CONAPS started operating in 2002

• CONAPS has been counted as an effective tool against collusion and corruption, through transparent and accountable procedures for public procurement

• CONAPS has developed its functionality to become a non-contact and paperless procurement platform

Topics: CONAPS, E-procurement

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Next generation CONAPS focuses on enhancing user experiences of procurement officials and suppliers

Supporting facts:

• CONAPS provides a personalized dashboard, consolidating user tasks and automatically generating to-do lists

• CONAPS will provide the same experiences with mobile devices to minimize unnecessary meetings in person

Topics: CONAPS, User Experience

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One of the NextConnex’s biggest challenges is the integration of 25 different procurement systems

Supporting facts:

• There are 25 procurement systems in Korea, maintained by different public organisations and government-owned companies

• The Public Procurement Service believes that digitization of public procurement will be definitely finalised at the same level of the NextConnex

Topics: CONAPS, E-procurement, Integration

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Becoming data hub in public procurement is another ambitious goal of the development phase

Supporting facts:

• Accessibility of public procurement data will be dramatically enhanced by integrating isolated e-procurement systems and databases

• Benefit of having a data hub would be the fact that full potential of procurement data to assist in purchasing decisions and procurement policies

Topics: Data Hub, Public Procurement

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Integration of decentralized procurement systems takes a considerable amount of time and effort

Supporting facts:

• Spent few years to make stakeholders understand the need for integration

• Endless trials and reports were key to progress

Topics: public procurement system, integration, decentralized procurement systems

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Communication with stakeholders is essential for successful integration

Supporting facts:

• Setting a practical goal is the first step

• Required support from government, inter-government, and broader government organizations

Topics: public procurement system, integration, stakeholder communication

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Standardizing information from other agencies has been a difficult task in public procurement systems.

Supporting facts:

• They have been operating the data hub system for a decade.

• Effort is made to persuade Congress to make a law to provide a regulations to gather other agencies’ data.

• Investment is needed to build their system to technically collect the data and provide set of standards.

Topics: Public Procurement System, Data Collection, Data Standardization

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Report

The CONAPS, also known as the Korea Online E-Procurement System, is an effective tool for combating collusion and corruption in public procurement. By shifting to electronic procurement, it has managed to save a staggering 8 trillion won annually. The system has been in operation since 2002 and has continuously evolved to become a non-contact and paperless platform.

The next generation of CONAPS focuses on enhancing user experiences for procurement officials and suppliers. It provides a personalized dashboard that consolidates user tasks and generates to-do lists. Additionally, it aims to offer the same user experiences on mobile devices, minimizing the need for in-person meetings.

However, integrating 25 different procurement systems is a significant challenge for CONAPS. In Korea, multiple public organizations and government-owned companies maintain these systems. The Public Procurement Service believes that digitizing public procurement will eventually lead to the integration of these systems, reaching the same level of functionality as the NextConnex.

Integrating these systems brings significant benefits, including improved accessibility to public procurement data. By combining isolated systems and databases, a data hub can be created. This data hub optimizes procurement decisions and policies by leveraging the full potential of procurement data.

The development phase of CONAPS emphasizes the use of emerging technologies like AI and Blockchain. These technologies offer innovative solutions for public procurement, with AI models like ChatGPT and BART enhancing efficiency and accuracy. Blockchain technology provides stronger protection against forgery and alteration of important contract documents.

While integrating decentralized procurement systems is essential, it is a time-consuming and challenging process. Stakeholders need to understand the need for integration, and various trials and reports are necessary. Despite the difficulties, stakeholders continue to advocate for integration due to the potential benefits it brings.

Another significant challenge in public procurement systems is the standardization of information from other agencies. This requires legislative and technical efforts, including persuading Congress to pass laws to gather data and developing a data hub system. To summarize, CONAPS has effectively combated collusion and corruption in public procurement.

Shifting to electronic procurement has resulted in substantial savings, while the system continues to evolve for better user experiences. The integration of procurement systems and the standardization of information are ongoing challenges, but they bring potential benefits. The use of emerging technologies further enhances the capabilities of the system.

Arguments

Unipass is an e-clearance system developed by KCS

Supporting facts:

• Unipass has been in operation for over 50 years, since 1974

• Unipass operates 24 hours a day, all year round

• Unipass manages comprehensive rate on companies, cargo tax, foreign exchange, passengers, and e-commerce

Topics: e-Customs Clearance System, Korean Customs Service, Unipass

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KCS is looking forward to incorporating new technologies like AI and big data into Unipass

Supporting facts:

• KCS aims to develop an AI-powered automatic risk selectivity system and an AI-powered X-ray imaging interpretation system

• KCS has trained 115 customs officials to become data scientists since 2017

Topics: Korean Customs Service, AI, Big data, Unipass

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Adapting new technologies in systems like Unipass requires three key aspects

Supporting facts:

• Unipass has a long history of about 50 years

• Unipass functionalities range from customs clearance to tax collection

• Unipass is used by foreign agencies

Topics: Unipass, Technology Adaptation, Success Tips

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It takes a long time to export the Unipass and other systems to other countries, which makes it challenging to adjust to new emerging technologies

Supporting facts:

• The ODA project process is lengthy and usually takes about two years

• The adoption of new systems is challenging due to the constant development of IT technologies

• A process is in place to design the system based on the specific needs and conditions of the recipient countries

Topics: Unipass system, technology adoption, ODA project

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The Korean government is developing a standard for API by types of services for internal use.

Supporting facts:

• The API is implemented in various services

• The government does not publicize it because the API standard varies greatly by service

Topics: API, Korean Government, Development

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Importance of laws in building digital government

Supporting facts:

• Each ministry has their own law

• Digital government articles need to be included in these laws or a new unified law needs to be created

Topics: Digital government, Law making, Inter-ministerial coordination

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Report

Unipass, an e-clearance system developed by the Korean Customs Service (KCS), has been in operation since 1974, providing round-the-clock services to facilitate customs processes. It manages tasks such as customs clearance, tax collection, foreign exchange, passengers, and e-commerce. The implementation of Unipass has significantly improved efficiency, reducing customs clearance time from 9.6 to 1.3 days.

KCS is looking to incorporate AI and big data into Unipass, leading to further enhancements. Unipass has also proven successful in increasing revenue for implementing countries, with examples such as Ghana experiencing a 33% growth and Tanzania reducing average clearance time from 31 to 15 days.

However, adapting new technologies like Unipass requires careful planning and an outstanding leader who can adapt to IT trends. Exporting Unipass and other systems can be a lengthy process, presenting challenges in adjusting to emerging technologies. The Korean government is working towards establishing a unified API standard for internal use, but is currently facing challenges due to the variety of services.

Additionally, the importance of laws and regulations in building a digital government is emphasized, as ministries are more likely to comply with digital government directives when supported by appropriate laws. Overall, Unipass serves as a testament to the benefits and challenges of incorporating innovative technologies into customs operations.

Arguments

Improvement of digital government services is a key priority

Supporting facts:

• Four Korean Government speakers presenting on Public MyData, Opening Digital Services, Electronic Customs Clearance System, Electronic Procurement System

Topics: Digital Services, Private and Public Collaboration, Digital Government

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Chang-Young Yang is the first speaker

Supporting facts:

• He is the Senior Deputy Director of the Public AI Policy Division from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. He leads Public MyData and electronic certificate projects.

Topics: Chang-Young Yang, Public MyData

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Sung-Tae Kim is the second speaker

Supporting facts:

• Deputy Director of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, he manages policy and operation of opening digital services

• Serves in the Public Service Innovation Division

Topics: Sung-Tae Kim, Digital Services

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Kidong Kim is the third speaker

Supporting facts:

• Director of the ICT and Data Planning Division at the Korea Customs Service

Topics: Kidong Kim, Customs Service Digitalization, ICT

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Heon-Woo Lee is the fourth speaker

Supporting facts:

• Works as a second-D in ICT’s TMI section, Former Senior Deputy Director of the ICT and Data Planning Division in the PPS

Topics: Heon-Woo Lee, Procurement System Digitalization, ICT

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Plans to increase services that use public MyData

Supporting facts:

• The expansion will be conducted via demand surveys on administrative agencies, public institutions, and other entities

• Relevant services would be identified independently

Topics: Public Data Use, Service Expansion

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Sunkyung Kim finds it interesting to conduct demand surveys directly with other agencies for service development

Supporting facts:

• Sunkyung Kim appreciates the initiative of conducting demand surveys with administrative agencies, public institutions, and other entities

• The strategy also involves developing independent surveys

Topics: Public Data Use, Survey Conduct

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Unipass, South Korea’s digital service, has a long history and offers many functions including customs clearance and tax collection.

Supporting facts:

• Unipass has a history of about 50 years.

• Unipass is used both domestically and by foreign agencies.

Topics: Unipass, digital service, South Korea, customs clearance, tax collection

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Integration of decentralized procurement systems

Supporting facts:

• Mentioned on page number 10

• These organizations such as local government and government operating enterprises follow the initiative of integrating procurement systems

Topics: Public Procurement System, Decentralized Systems, Local Government

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Report

During a presentation by Korean government speakers, the key priority of improving digital government services was highlighted. Chang-Young Yang, the first speaker, leads projects related to Public MyData and electronic certificates, aiming to enhance access to and utilization of public data.

Sung-Tae Kim, the second speaker, manages the policy and operation of opening digital services to ensure their accessibility and benefit to the public. Kidong Kim, the Director of the ICT and Data Planning Division at the Korea Customs Service, specializes in the digitalization of customs services, including electronic customs clearance.

Heon-Woo Lee, the fourth speaker, has valuable insights into the digitalization of government procurement processes from his experience in the ICT and Data Planning Division. These speakers collectively promote private-public collaboration in digitalization, indicative of a coordinated approach within the Korean government.

The Korean government plans to increase services using public MyData and conducts demand surveys with administrative agencies and public institutions to identify specific services that can effectively leverage public data. Sunkyung Kim appreciates the strategy of conducting demand surveys directly with other agencies, fostering collaboration and gathering insights for service development.

The Korean government aims to expand the digital services spectrum, exploring the introduction of flight booking services similar to high-speed train booking. One noteworthy digital service in South Korea is Unipass, which has a long history spanning over 50 years. Unipass offers various functions, including customs clearance and tax collection, and is used domestically and by foreign agencies.

Sunkyung Kim seeks advice on managing and improving the Unipass system beyond national boundaries. Addressing challenges associated with operating Unipass and other digital systems requires successful management strategies. In addition to digital services, there is an initiative to integrate decentralized procurement systems, with local government and government operating enterprises following this approach.

This alignment aims to streamline procurement processes and improve efficiency. The Korean government’s digitalization efforts prioritize enhancing digital government services through private-public collaboration, expanding services using public MyData, and addressing challenges in digital systems like Unipass. These efforts contribute to creating a more efficient and accessible digital landscape in Korea.

Arguments

The Korean government announces the new vision of digital platform government

Supporting facts:

• The Korean government has been working with the private sectors to foster an ecosystem for digital innovations

• It is one of the key projects on the digital platform government action to action plan jointly formulated with the digital platform government committee

Topics: Public Service Innovation Division, Korean digital service

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Private sector platforms allow users to access various service with a single tap

Supporting facts:

• The old vaccination booking system had various issues with connection failures due to a massive number of simultaneous users

Topics: Public-private digital service integration, APIs

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Citizens will have better lives with proactive and personalized service

Supporting facts:

• In the future, the government plans to offer over 220 digital services through private service

• The aim is to improve the efficiency of public service, and allow people to access service they need anywhere, anytime

Topics: Digital service platform, Citizen satisfaction

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Flight booking is a service provided by a private sector business in South Korea

Topics: flight booking, private sector, digital services, South Korea

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The opening of a digital service is aimed at leaving private sector service to the market and opening public service to private sector business to create new opportunities for them.

Topics: digital services, private sector, public service, market, new opportunities

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Report

The Korean government recently announced a new vision for a digital platform government, aiming to enhance accessibility and satisfaction with services. Working collaboratively with private sectors, they are determined to foster an ecosystem for digital innovations. This collaborative effort is a crucial part of the government’s digital platform government action plan, formulated jointly with the digital platform government committee.

One of the main objectives of this new vision is to improve convenience for users by allowing them to access various services with just a single tap. The previous vaccination booking system, for instance, faced numerous issues due to connection failures caused by the overwhelming number of simultaneous users.

However, with the opening of digital services to private sector platforms, users now have the benefit of accessing services through familiar and user-friendly apps and websites. This improves convenience and enhances stability and reliability. Furthermore, the opening of digital services is not limited to benefiting users alone.

Businesses can also take advantage of this opportunity to link their services with open digital platforms, creating a synergistic effect that fosters integrated service provision. This opens up new and innovative business opportunities for enterprises, ultimately contributing to economic growth and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8).

Another significant outcome of this new vision is the increased accessibility and satisfaction with services provided by each agent involved. By leveraging open digital service platforms, the government can ensure that citizens have easy access to the services they need, anywhere and anytime.

This improved accessibility and satisfaction, in turn, contribute to creating a more transparent and open government, aligning with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16). Looking towards the future, the government has plans to offer over 220 digital services through private platforms.

This initiative is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of public services while also providing citizens with proactive and personalised services. This move aligns with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goals 3 (SDG 3) and 11 (SDG 11), which aim to promote well-being and sustainable cities and communities.

It is noteworthy that the opening of digital services also encompasses the airline industry in South Korea. Flight booking services, for instance, are provided by private sector businesses. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to leaving private sector services to the market while opening up public services to private sector businesses, creating new opportunities for them.

This approach aligns with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goals 8 (SDG 8) and 9 (SDG 9), which focus on economic growth, industry, innovation, and infrastructure. In conclusion, the Korean government’s new vision for a digital platform government is set to revolutionise the accessibility and satisfaction of services.

Through collaboration with private sectors, they aim to foster an ecosystem for digital innovations, enhancing convenience and stability for users. Businesses, too, stand to benefit from this initiative through the creation of new opportunities for integrated service provision. With a positive sentiment towards the opening of digital services, citizens can look forward to improved efficiency and proactive, personalised services that contribute to their overall well-being.

Arguments

Ghana has demonstrated a strong commitment towards digital economy and e-commerce development. However, it still lacks a national e-commerce strategy.

Supporting facts:

• Ghana’s Ministry of Communication has established the goal of making Ghana a leader in Africa’s digital economy by 2028.

• Despite technological advances, there’s no coordinated national strategy for e-commerce.

Topics: Digital Economy, E-commerce, National Strategy

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Improvement is needed in Ghana’s ICT and digital infrastructure to ensure universal access and use.

Supporting facts:

• National average access to electricity in Ghana was 85% in 2021.

• Ghana’s internet penetration was at 76% by 2023, but 4G access is still limited at around 10%.

Topics: ICT Services, Internet Connectivity, Digital Infrastructure

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The logistics and delivery services in Ghana present a key challenge for the development of e-commerce.

Supporting facts:

• Delivery and logistics are identified as bigger challenges for e-commerce than even connectivity.

• Ghana Post GPS’ digital addressing system received mixed reviews from private operators.

Topics: Trade Logistics, E-commerce, Delivery

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There’s a need to increase digital skill development and access to financing for entrepreneurs in Ghana.

Supporting facts:

• Incubation programs have shown results in skill development for entrepreneurs.

• However, commercial banks in Ghana have a limited role in financing the local economy with an aggregated ratio of loans to deposits of more than 50%.

Topics: Digital Skills, Financing, Entrepreneurship

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Report

Ghana has demonstrated a strong commitment towards developing its digital economy and e-commerce sector. The Ministry of Communication in Ghana has set a goal to make the country a leader in Africa’s digital economy by 2028. However, one major challenge that Ghana faces is the lack of a coordinated national strategy for e-commerce.

Without a comprehensive plan, the growth of the e-commerce sector is hindered. In terms of ICT and digital infrastructure, Ghana still has room for improvement to ensure universal access and usage. While the national average access to electricity reached 85% in 2021, there are still regions with limited electricity infrastructure.

Limited access to electricity hampers the ability of individuals and businesses to benefit from digital technologies. Additionally, while Ghana’s internet penetration reached 76% by 2023, 4G access remains limited at around 10%. This indicates the need for better internet connectivity to support the growth of digital services and bridge the digital divide.

The logistics and delivery services in Ghana present a key challenge for the development of e-commerce. Delivery and logistics are identified as bigger challenges for e-commerce than connectivity. Ghana Post GPS’ digital addressing system has received mixed reviews from private operators, suggesting the need for further improvements in this area.

Digital skill development and access to financing are crucial for the growth of entrepreneurs in Ghana. Incubation programs have shown positive results in developing digital skills, but the role of commercial banks in financing the local economy is limited. Enhanced access to financing options and support for entrepreneurs are needed to promote sustainable economic growth and job creation.

Despite improvements, achieving universal internet access in Ghana still faces significant barriers. High costs of internet packages, a digital divide between urban and rural areas, and the lack of electricity infrastructure in some regions contribute to this challenge. Overall, while Ghana has shown commitment towards developing its digital economy and e-commerce sector, there are challenges that need to be addressed.

These include the lack of a national e-commerce strategy, the need for improvements in ICT and digital infrastructure, challenges in logistics and delivery services, and the importance of digital skill development and access to financing for entrepreneurs. By addressing these challenges, Ghana can unlock the full potential of its digital economy, drive economic growth, and enhance the well-being of its citizens.

Arguments

The government of Ghana prioritizes digitalization as a tool for social and economic empowerment and a vehicle for economic growth

Supporting facts:

• Ghana’s 2008 digital agenda has resulted in various successful programs and initiatives

• The Ghana 2019-2024 Payment System Strategy, GoDigital, opened opportunities in the financial sector and facilitated financial inclusion

Topics: Digitalization, Economic growth, Social empowerment

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Ghana is committed to expanding its digital economy and improving its ICT infrastructure and public sector digital platforms

Supporting facts:

• Ghana has embarked on the process of conducting an e-Trade Readiness Assessment with the assistance of UNCTAD

• Ghana established a National Steering Committee on e-commerce and digital trade to support technical assistance coordination, information sharing and inter-governmental coordination

Topics: ICT Infrastructure, Public sector digital platforms

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E-commerce has the potential to advance Ghana’s economy and improve competitiveness of SMEs

Supporting facts:

• E-commerce can provide market exposure, facilitate absorption of new digital skills, and introduce business efficiency and resilience

Topics: E-commerce, Economy, SMEs

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Report

The government of Ghana places a high level of importance on digitalisation as a tool to promote social and economic empowerment, with the ultimate goal of achieving economic growth. The nation has implemented various successful programmes and initiatives to support this agenda.

For instance, the Ghana 2019-2024 Payment System Strategy, known as GoDigital, has opened up new opportunities in the financial sector and facilitated financial inclusion. This initiative has played a crucial role in bringing previously unbanked individuals into the formal financial system, empowering them to access and participate in the economy.

Ghana is committed to expanding its digital economy and improving its information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure and public sector digital platforms. In this regard, the country has embarked on the process of conducting an e-Trade Readiness Assessment, with the assistance of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

The purpose of this assessment is to evaluate Ghana’s preparedness to engage in e-commerce and digital trade. By focusing on improving its technological capabilities and creating a conducive environment for online business activities, Ghana aims to enhance its presence in the digital economy and boost economic growth.

It is evident that e-commerce plays a significant role in advancing Ghana’s economy and improving the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). E-commerce offers numerous benefits, including market exposure, the facilitation of new digital skills, and the introduction of business efficiency and resilience.

By embracing e-commerce, Ghana seeks to leverage these advantages to drive economic development and increase the opportunities available to SMEs. Furthermore, Ghana’s support for the E-Trade Readiness Assessment demonstrates its endorsement of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) e-commerce strategy.

This endorsement signifies Ghana’s commitment to implementing and operationalising the ECOWAS e-commerce strategy across the sub-region. By actively participating in the readiness assessment and coordinating technical assistance, information sharing, and inter-governmental cooperation through the establishment of the National Steering Committee on e-commerce and digital trade, Ghana aims to contribute to the overall success of the ECOWAS e-commerce agenda.

In conclusion, the Ghanaian government recognises the potential of digitalisation and e-commerce to drive social and economic empowerment and foster economic growth. The country has implemented several successful initiatives, such as the GoDigital payment system strategy, in order to promote financial inclusion.

Ghana is also actively working towards expanding its digital economy and improving its ICT infrastructure and public sector digital platforms through the ongoing e-Trade Readiness Assessment. Additionally, e-commerce is viewed as a vital tool for advancing Ghana’s economy and enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs.

Ghana’s support for the E-Trade Readiness Assessment reflects its commitment to the operationalisation of the ECOWAS e-commerce strategy. Overall, these efforts demonstrate Ghana’s dedication to harnessing the benefits of digitalisation for sustainable development.

Arguments

Access to finance for e-commerce startups in Ghana depends on access to verifiable data

Supporting facts:

• A digitization of the retail sector has led to an influx of verifiable data that can be used to credit score SMEs

• Credit scoring allows banks to confidently offer loans, knowing they’ll be able to recover them

Topics: e-Commerce, Startups, Finance, Access to Information, Commerce

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Ghana should leverage its position as the host of the AFCTA Secretariat to drive innovation for the entire African continent

Supporting facts:

• Ghana hosts the AFCTA Secretariat, placing it in a strong position to drive pan-African innovation

• Kingsley’s company thinks of creating a platform not just for Ghana, but for all of Africa

Topics: Ghana, Innovation, E-commerce, Africa

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Innovation comes from the private sector, hence their involvement is crucial

Supporting facts:

• Monica Rubiolo emphasizes the need for collaboration between private and public sector and highlights how innovation is driven by the private sector

Topics: Innovation, Private sector

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Aim for large scale thinking over pilot programs, to drive regional growth

Supporting facts:

• Monica Rubiolo suggests to focus on scale instead of pilots and work region-wise so that a solution implemented in one place can be replicated in another place

Topics: Regional Growth, Large scale projects

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Issues of data ownership and data security when working with small producers.

Supporting facts:

• MSMEs understand that data is critical to their businesses, hence it should be protected and at the same time can be shared responsibly with banks, fintechs or tax authorities to grow their businesses

Topics: Data ownership, Data security

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Ghana is at a critical stage in its data infrastructure and regional cohesion

Supporting facts:

• Ghana and Africa as a whole have improved in their data infrastructure

• They have also improved in regional cohesion with AFCTE and Pan-African payment system

Topics: Data Infrastructure, Regional Cohesion, AFCTE, PAPS

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Inclusion of other policies such as AFCTE and PAPS in building e-commerce agenda

Supporting facts:

• AFCTE creates one zone for trade

• Pan-African payment system helps in trading across borders without currency conversion

Topics: E-commerce, Trade, Policy inclusion, AFCTE, PAPS

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Emphasizing on the role of MSMEs for the country’s economy

Supporting facts:

• MSMEs run the retail, not the big corporates

• Ghana is run by retailers in the deep markets

Topics: MSMEs, Economy, Retailers

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Report

Access to finance for e-commerce startups in Ghana is closely tied to the availability of verifiable data. The digitisation of the retail sector has resulted in a significant influx of data, which can now be used for credit scoring purposes.

This has enabled banks to offer loans with confidence, knowing that they will be able to recover them. By leveraging this verifiable data, e-commerce startups in Ghana can improve their access to finance and grow their businesses. Furthermore, Ghana’s position as the host of the AFCTA Secretariat presents a unique opportunity to drive innovation for the entire African continent.

The AFCTA Secretariat gives Ghana a strong platform to influence and shape the future of pan-African innovation. By taking advantage of this position, Ghana can drive collaborative efforts and foster innovation across Africa, ultimately benefiting the entire region. The private sector plays a crucial role in driving innovation.

The private sector, with its understanding of retailers’ needs and desires, has been at the forefront of innovation in Ghana. This understanding has led to successful initiatives such as mobile money, which has revolutionised digital payments in the country. Therefore, collaboration between the private and public sectors is vital to drive innovation and achieve economic growth.

It is important to emphasise large-scale thinking over pilot programs to drive regional growth. By focusing on scalable solutions and implementing them region-wise, successful initiatives can be replicated in other areas. This approach ensures that the benefits of these initiatives can reach a wider audience, contributing to regional economic growth and development.

When working with small producers, issues of data ownership and data security become important considerations. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) recognise the critical role that data plays in their businesses and understand the need to protect it. Simultaneously, they also see the potential benefits of responsibly sharing their data with banks, fintechs, or tax authorities to facilitate business growth.

Striking a balance between data ownership, data security, and responsible data sharing is crucial for supporting the growth of MSMEs. Education about data sharing is essential in helping MSMEs understand how it can benefit them. By providing them with the necessary knowledge and tools, MSMEs can make informed decisions about sharing their data.

This understanding can lead to reduced taxation and enable them to grow their businesses effectively. Ghana is currently at a critical stage in its data infrastructure and regional cohesion. The improvement of data infrastructure and the establishment of mechanisms such as the AFCTA and the Pan-African payment system demonstrate Ghana’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and cooperation.

These advancements pave the way for increased trade and e-commerce opportunities within Africa. Inclusion of policies such as the AFCTA and the Pan-African payment system in building the e-commerce agenda can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of cross-border trade. The AFCTA creates a unified trading zone, while the Pan-African payment system facilitates seamless transactions without the need for currency conversion.

By integrating these policies into the e-commerce agenda, Ghana can further promote economic growth and development in the region. Emphasising the role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is vital for Ghana’s economy. It is the MSMEs, rather than big corporations, that run the retail sector in Ghana, especially in the deep markets.

Recognising and supporting the contributions of MSMEs is essential for a thriving and inclusive economy. In conclusion, access to verifiable data is crucial for e-commerce startups in Ghana to secure finance. Ghana’s position as the host of the AFCTA Secretariat provides an opportunity to drive innovation across Africa.

Collaboration between the private and public sectors is necessary for driving innovation, and large-scale thinking can lead to regional growth. Issues of data ownership and security must be addressed when working with small producers. Education about data sharing can benefit MSMEs.

Additionally, Ghana is at a critical stage in its data infrastructure and regional cohesion, and policies such as the AFCTA and the Pan-African payment system can support the e-commerce agenda. Emphasising the role of MSMEs is vital for Ghana’s economy and overall development.

Arguments

The importance of private sector-driven innovation and digitization of commerce in Africa

Supporting facts:

• Access to verifiable data is vital for digitizing commerce, which can be achieved through digitizing retailers’ record-keeping methods.

• Ghana’s fintech infrastructure has made progress in facilitating the collection of capital by financial institutions.

Topics: Digital transformation, Access to data, Private sector development, E-commerce

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Cécile Barayre supports the idea of doing e-readiness assessment at a regional level

Supporting facts:

• Such an assessment has been done for the ECOWAS

• They are looking at other regions depending on the interest

Topics: e-readiness assessment, cross-border ecosystem, e-commerce

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Cécile Barayre thanks the team involved in the year’s work

Supporting facts:

• Specifically mentioned team members: Martine, Tefa, Ina

• She also recognized the focal points of other e-readies: Mauritania, Madagascar, and Tunisia

Topics: team recognition

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Report

Access to verifiable data is crucial for the digital transformation of commerce in Africa. This can be achieved by digitising retailers’ record-keeping methods, ensuring accurate and reliable data is available for analysis and decision-making. Ghana’s fintech infrastructure has made significant progress in facilitating the collection of capital by financial institutions, contributing to the growth and development of the private sector.

Private sector-driven innovation and digitisation of commerce play key roles in Africa’s economic progress. By embracing digital technologies and leveraging innovation, businesses can improve efficiency and expand their reach in local and international markets. It is vital to create an enabling environment that supports the digitisation of commerce, allowing African merchants to thrive in a digital economy.

One crucial aspect is the creation of a platform enabling every African merchant to have a digitised e-commerce storefront, connected to all payment gateways. This promotes accessibility and inclusivity, empowering merchants to tap into a wider customer base and transact securely.

Ghana’s position as the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat provides a unique opportunity to drive innovation not only within the country but also across the entire continent. Its regional leadership enhances its potential to shape commerce and digital infrastructure in Africa.

Furthermore, Cécile Barayre supports the idea of conducting e-readiness assessments at a regional level. Assessments have already been done for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), with interest in expanding this approach to other regions. This improves understanding of the digital readiness of different regions and facilitates targeted interventions to enhance their digital capabilities.

In conclusion, access to verifiable data and the digitisation of commerce are paramount for Africa’s economic growth. Through private sector-driven innovation and the establishment of digital infrastructure, African countries can unlock significant economic opportunities for businesses and communities. Ghana’s fintech progress and its hosting of the AfCFTA Secretariat position it as a catalyst for innovation and progress on the continent.

Regional e-readiness assessments provide valuable insights for strategic planning and implementation. The collaborative efforts of individuals like Cécile Barayre and dedicated teams contribute to the ongoing work towards a digitally empowered Africa.

Arguments

Switzerland provides support to Ghana through its Economic Development Cooperation in the important area of digitalization.

Supporting facts:

• Ghana is a priority country for Switzerland’s Economic Development Cooperation.

Topics: Economic Development Cooperation of Switzerland, Digitalization

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The E-Readiness Assessment findings highlight the transversal dimension of digitalization for Ghana’s development.

Supporting facts:

• Assessment highlights the importance of strengthening the government systems such as fintech, digital systems related to taxpayers, etc.

Topics: E-Readiness Assessment, Digitalization

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Current macroeconomic environment in Ghana makes it difficult to make the necessary investments for digitalization.

Topics: Macroeconomic environment, Investment, Digitalization

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Private-public sector collaboration is crucial for innovation

Supporting facts:

• Innovation comes from the private sector

• Private sector needs to be a part of the conversation

Topics: Digitalization, Innovation, Private-public collaboration

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Need to think beyond pilots and scale up

Supporting facts:

• What works in Ghana can be replicated in Tanzania, Mozambique, etc.

• There are challenges with cross-border and trade facilitation

Topics: Regional cooperation, Scale, Trade facilitation

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Data ownership and security are crucial issues when dealing with smallholders and producers

Topics: Data ownership, Data security, Transparency

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Monica Rubiolo agreed with Kingsley Abrokwah’s statement by expressing that she supports integrating other policies across the ecosystem besides building an e-commerce for Ghana.

Supporting facts:

• Kingsley Abrokwah highlighted the importance of including different strategies while building e-commerce for Ghana and focusing on MSMEs and retailers.

Topics: E-commerce agenda in Ghana, AFC, FTA

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Monica Rubiolo proposes to conduct similar assessment at a regional level to identify obstacles in cross-border collaborations.

Topics: Regional cross-border collaborations, E-readiness assessment

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Report

Switzerland is providing support to Ghana through its Economic Development Cooperation, specifically in the area of digitalization. This assistance aims to promote the adoption of digital technologies and capabilities in Ghana’s development. The E-Readiness Assessment findings reinforce the importance of digitalization for Ghana and highlight the need to strengthen government systems in areas such as fintech and digital systems related to taxpayers.

However, the current macroeconomic environment in Ghana presents challenges for investing in digitalization. Financial constraints and economic instability may hinder Ghana’s ability to fully embrace digital technologies and infrastructure. On a positive note, the government is establishing coordination mechanisms between the public and private sectors.

This collaborative approach allows for the synchronization of efforts and resources, facilitating a more comprehensive and effective implementation of digitalization initiatives. Inter-ministerial coordination is identified as a priority in the E-Readiness Assessment for developing a digitalization strategy. This emphasizes the importance of streamlining efforts across different government departments to ensure a cohesive and integrated approach to digital transformation.

Private-public sector collaboration is crucial for fostering innovation. Involving the private sector in discussions and decision-making processes related to digitalization allows for the exchange of expertise, resources, and ideas, leading to more innovative solutions. Regional cooperation and scaling up digitalization initiatives are also significant factors.

Replicating successful practices from Ghana in countries like Tanzania and Mozambique is possible, but challenges with cross-border and trade facilitation need to be addressed. Data ownership and security are crucial, especially for smallholders and producers. Ensuring transparency and safeguarding data are essential for building trust and facilitating effective digitalization processes.

Monica Rubiolo, a key advocate, emphasizes the importance of regional solutions, private-public collaboration, and addressing data ownership and security. Scaling up digitalization efforts and integrating other policies alongside building e-commerce for Ghana are encouraged to create a holistic and sustainable ecosystem.

Rubiolo proposes conducting a regional-level assessment to identify obstacles in cross-border collaborations. This approach would facilitate a better understanding of challenges and enable the formulation of targeted strategies to enhance regional cooperation. In conclusion, Switzerland’s support, along with the recommendations from the E-Readiness Assessment and advocates like Rubiolo, highlights the need for comprehensive strategies, collaboration, and addressing financial and economic constraints.

By implementing these measures, Ghana can achieve significant progress in digitalization and drive socio-economic development.

Arguments

Ghana has demonstrated commitment towards e-commerce and the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Ghana’s e-trade readiness assessment reflects the government’s committed efforts.

• Significant investments have been made in infrastructure, payment solutions, and digital addressing systems in Ghana.

Topics: E-commerce, Digital economy, Ghana

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Ghana needs to develop a national e-commerce strategy to capitalize on its potential.

Supporting facts:

• A National Steering Committee on E-Commerce and Digital Trade was created.

• The strategy should align with the capabilities and needs of the Ghanaian people, including the private sector.

Topics: E-commerce, Digital economy, Ghana

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Report

Ghana has shown a strong commitment to e-commerce and the digital economy, with significant investments in infrastructure, payment solutions, and digital addressing systems. These efforts demonstrate the government’s dedication to creating an environment conducive to e-commerce development in the country.

The launch of Ghana’s e-trade readiness assessment is an important step in this process. However, it should be noted that this assessment is just the beginning, not the end. The next immediate step is the development of a national e-commerce strategy, as recommended in the assessment.

This strategy will provide a roadmap to guide Ghana’s efforts and maximize its potential in e-commerce. Continued partnership with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the e-trade for all partnership group is encouraged. These partnerships can offer valuable expertise and resources to support Ghana’s e-commerce development initiatives.

When developing the national e-commerce strategy, it is essential to ensure that it aligns with the capabilities and needs of the Ghanaian people, including the private sector. By engaging with the private sector, the strategy can be designed to encourage their active participation and leverage their expertise.

This collaboration will enable Ghana to create an environment that promotes innovation and drives economic growth through e-commerce. Overall, Ghana’s commitment to e-commerce and the digital economy is evident through its investments in infrastructure and the launch of the e-trade readiness assessment.

By developing a comprehensive national e-commerce strategy and leveraging partnerships with organizations like UNCTAD, Ghana can establish itself as a leader in e-commerce and fully capitalize on the opportunities it offers.