How Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) and trade institutions could leverage digital tools to create sustainable supply chain partnerships’

Arguments

Cambodia's commitment to fostering September growth via strategies focusing on circular economy and carbon neutrality impressed the audience.

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Questions on how Cambodia navigates sustainability database to attract green investment

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Interest in understanding if there are plans to integrate this resource within the broader Asian framework for enhancing September growth and competitiveness across member states

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Report

During her presentation, Ms. Nguyen provided valuable insights into Cambodia's commitment to sustainability, specifically focusing on the use of organic materials and solar energy. The audience was impressed by Cambodia's dedication to sustainable practices. One key highlight was the September database, which Cambodia utilizes as a tool to promote responsible trade and investment.

This database is crucial in facilitating business practices aligned with sustainability goals. Cambodia's strategies on circular economy and carbon neutrality were particularly impressive. The country aims to foster September growth through the implementation of these strategies, which include reducing waste and promoting efficient resource usage.

Their commitment to carbon neutrality demonstrates their dedication to mitigating climate change. The discussion also centered around how Cambodia utilizes the sustainability database to attract green investment. The audience was eager to understand how Cambodia leverages this database to attract such investments, as green investment is essential for promoting sustainable development.

The exchange of ideas and insights in this regard emphasized the importance of leveraging the database's potential to attract investors who align with sustainability goals. Furthermore, there was an interesting exploration of integrating the sustainability database within the broader Asian framework.

The discussion touched upon Cambodia's participation in the Asian framework for enhancing September growth and competitiveness among member states. The audience expressed curiosity about how the sustainability database could be integrated into this framework, emphasizing the potential benefits for regional collaboration and advancement towards sustainable development goals.

The importance of partnerships in fostering economic growth and achieving sustainable development was also highlighted. In summary, Ms. Nguyen's presentation highlighted Cambodia's commendable commitment to sustainability, focusing on organic materials, solar energy, circular economy, and carbon neutrality. The September database serves as a crucial tool in supporting responsible trade and investment.

The audience expressed interest in Cambodia's utilization of the database to attract green investment and its potential integration within the broader Asian framework. Overall, the presentation effectively showcased Cambodia's dedication to sustainability and their efforts to foster September growth through these strategies.

Arguments

Caroline King emphasizes the importance of collaboration between private sector and governments, and the necessity for governments to take the lead in digital transformation.

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Caroline King recognizes the importance of setting standards and harmonization in AI technology, stating that it is world's biggest disruptor.

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Access to technology and digital tools can aid governments and private sectors in a more efficient way

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Report

Caroline King, in her discussions on digital transformation, emphasises the importance of collaboration between the private sector and governments. She highlights that governments should take the lead in this process. King mentions that SAP, a leading technology company, has observed the evolution of the company's interaction with the public sector, indicating its role as an enabler for digital transformation.

She further observes that the realisation of the importance of digital transformation in government has accelerated following the COVID-19 pandemic. Regarding AI technology, King recognises the need to establish standards and harmonization to prevent technology from controlling society. She asserts that AI is the world's biggest disruptor and advocates working together to address the challenges posed by disruptive technology.

In terms of climate goals, King argues that achieving these goals is a shared responsibility that requires mutual support from both the private sector and the government. She believes that neither governments nor private sector entities can effectively tackle the challenges of climate change alone.

King also notes that the private sector, including companies like SAP, can feel overwhelmed by the numerous fragmented initiatives on climate actions. This highlights the need for coordination and financing from the government to enhance collaboration and facilitate progress towards climate goals.

Access to technology and digital tools is seen as a means to enhance efficiency for both governments and private sectors. King highlights that SAP caters to a diverse range of customers, including SMEs, disproving the notion that their tools are suitable only for large enterprises.

She points out that SAP utilizes cloud models and modular software, making their tools more affordable and flexible. Furthermore, SAP invests in startups and develops solutions that contribute to sustainability efforts, such as the certification for green hydrogen, which acts as a digital twin for ESG reporting.

The company also collaborates on projects related to traceability, such as rural sourcing management in East Africa. The long-term association between SAP and BMW has resulted in the iFactory, which monitors the entire supply chain with real data. Caroline King notes that public-private partnerships (PPPs) and cross-sectoral collaborations play a crucial role in enhancing sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

As an example, SAP has developed certification for green hydrogen as part of a PPP initiative. The company has also engaged in partnerships with Gateshead for capacity building and skills development. Collaboration with governments and organizations is being considered to promote green hydrogen technology.

Overall, Caroline King's arguments underscore the importance of collaboration, standards, access to technology, and public-private partnerships in various domains such as digital transformation, AI, climate goals, and sustainability. SAP's involvement in these initiatives serves as concrete evidence of its commitment to enabling positive change through technology.

Arguments

Cambodia is committed to combat climate change and promote green economy

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The supplier's database developed by the Council for Development of Cambodia is a notable step

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Digitalization should not be a barrier, but a catalyst for resilient, sustainable, and inclusive economic transformation

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Cambodia is focusing on sustainable growth, backed by its commitment to a circular economy and carbon neutrality, seen in their creation of a sustainability database

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Improving the investment climate is crucial for de-risking investment.

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The UNCDF is working on a blended finance model which could be adopted.

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Report

Cambodia has implemented the Pentagon Strategy, a new social and economic policy agenda, to combat climate change and promote a green economy. The strategy focuses on growth, employment, equity, efficiency, and sustainability. It prioritises investments in key sectors such as digital industries, environmental management and protection, biodiversity conservation, circular economy, and green energy technology.

To attract investments in these sectors, Cambodia has introduced the law on investment, 2021, providing incentives for investors. Cambodia is actively participating in regional efforts through its membership in ASEAN. It is part of the formulation of the ASEAN Community Vision Post-2025, a 20-year strategy termed Vision 2045.

ASEAN is working on a Framework on Circular Economy and a Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, aiming to achieve resilient, resource-efficient, and sustainable growth. Cambodia is leveraging these regional strategies to attract more green investments. To promote sustainability and transparency, the Council for Development of Cambodia, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum, has developed a database for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to register and provide sustainability details about their products.

This database serves as a platform for potential buyers and interested parties to access contact information and product details. Cambodia has set an ambitious goal of becoming a digital economy and society by 2035. It has formulated a policy framework to adopt and maximise the benefits of digital technology.

ASEAN is also negotiating an ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement to accelerate inclusive digital transformation. However, it is acknowledged that developing countries, especially the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), often face challenges in accessing digital technology due to limited resources and infrastructure.

These countries require technical assistance, capacity building, and technology transfer from more developed nations. Overall, global trade discussions and negotiations should be open, transparent, and inclusive. Cambodia is working towards sustainable growth and a circular economy, as evidenced by the creation of a unique sustainability database.

The ASEAN region provides Cambodia with a wider consumer base and business environment, offering an advantageous position for its sustainable development goals. Efforts are being made to connect Cambodia's online marketplace, CambodiaTrade.com, with ASEANonline. Improving the investment climate is crucial for de-risking investment, and Cambodia recognises the use of public money as an effective method.

Blended finance models, which combine public and private investment, can help address investment challenges. The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) is exploring a blended finance model that could be adopted. In conclusion, Cambodia is dedicated to combating climate change, promoting a green economy, and achieving sustainable development.

Through its social and economic policy agenda, regional cooperation with ASEAN, promotion of sustainability through the MSMEs database, and focus on digitalisation and investment climate improvement, Cambodia is making significant progress towards its goals.

Arguments

Investment promotion agencies and trade institutions can play a vital role in achieving climate goals.

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Digitalization can contribute to creating sustainable supply chain partnerships.

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Digital strategy and tools can enhance sustainability of supply chain

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The digital revolution allows all countries, regardless of development level, to compete equally

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Governments need to update and enforce regulations to incorporate digital solutions

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The transition to digital operations can contribute to environmental sustainability

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Cambodia has rolled out a new social and economic policy agenda called the Pentagon Strategy

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Climate change and digital transformation are two significant factors influencing the formulation of the Pentagon Strategy

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There are plans to attract investment into priority sectors such as the digital industries, the environmental management and protection sector, and green energy technology

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Cambodia is part of ASEAN which is currently formulating the ASEAN Community Vision Post-2025

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SAP has been investing in digital tools and technologies for sustainability, and recognizes the importance of government investment and involvement in digital transformation.

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Despite digital innovation, there's a risk of technology controlling us if we don't establish standards and work collaboratively.

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There is a need to consolidate and coordinate efforts in the sustainability and technology sectors to ensure resources are used effectively.

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EIF conducts Diagnostic Trade Integration Study for countries that come to them for support

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EIF helps countries with e-regulation to improve investment climate.

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EIF collaborates with investment promotion agencies for attracting and retaining foreign investment

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EIF provides funding to de-risk investment for private sector

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For investment promotion agencies, digitization serves two objectives: simplification of procedures and transparency

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Different organizations bring together investment promotion agencies, for the development of platforms to share information

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Capacity enhancement is necessary in order to use digital means that provide access to information

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Training on using these solutions reduces the cost of recruiting third-party companies

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The joint project by EIF and YPAT for capacity building of francophone investment promotion agencies is useful

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Digitalization should not be a barrier but a catalyst for resilient, sustainable, and inclusive economic transformation

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Cambodia has a policy framework for digital technology adoption

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ASEAN is on the path to negotiate a Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA)

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Long Kemvichet introduced a new platform called cambodiatrade.com

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Cambodiatrade.com participated in trade fairs and exhibitions

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Cambodiatrade.com plans to link with OnlineASEAN.com

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Report

Investment promotion agencies and trade institutions play a vital role in achieving climate goals. They have close connections with the private sector and can influence policies and actions. These agencies and institutions represent their governments and work towards attracting investment and promoting trade.

On the other hand, digitalization can contribute to creating sustainable supply chain partnerships and enhance the sustainability of the supply chain. By using digital tools, organizations can improve connectivity and efficiency, leading to more responsible consumption and production practices. Collective knowledge and experiences from international organizations and the private sector are essential for driving sustainable solutions.

The diversity of perspectives allows for the exchange of best practices and the development of innovative approaches. This is particularly relevant in the context of partnerships for the goals, where collaboration between different stakeholders is crucial. Despite the potential benefits of digital tools, progress in terms of digital inclusion is slow in least developed countries (LDCs).

Only one-third of the population in LDCs is digitally connected, highlighting the digital divide that exists. Efforts should be made to bridge this gap and ensure that LDCs can fully leverage the advantages of digitization. Digitalization can also streamline legal processes and make them more investor-friendly.

By embracing digital solutions, governments can simplify procedures, improve transparency, and create a more conducive environment for investment. This is particularly important in attracting foreign investment and promoting economic growth. Furthermore, the transition to digital operations can contribute to environmental sustainability.

Digitization leads to dematerialization, reducing the need for paper and preserving forests. Implementing digital payment systems can also reduce the need for physical movement, thereby promoting sustainability. In Cambodia, the government has rolled out the Pentagon Strategy, a social and economic policy agenda aimed at supporting the country's ambition to become a high-income nation by 2050.

The strategy focuses on achieving growth, employment, equity, efficiency, and sustainability. It also acknowledges the significant influence of climate change and digital transformation in shaping its goals. The ASEAN Community Vision Post-2025 is currently being formulated and emphasizes the importance of collective efforts and collaboration to address regional challenges.

ASEAN member countries, including Cambodia, recognize the need to work together to achieve sustainable development goals and promote inclusive digital transformation. SAP, a world leader in business software, acknowledges the importance of government investment and involvement in digital transformation. They have been investing in digital tools and technologies for sustainability, contributing to the development of a more sustainable and innovative business ecosystem.

However, it is essential to establish standards and promote collaboration to prevent technology from controlling us. The introduction of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, should take into account the need for proactive regulation and the establishment of ethical frameworks.

Overall, the transition to a digital economy and the adoption of digital tools can bring significant benefits, including economic growth, sustainability, and inclusivity. To fully harness these benefits, governments, organizations, and international institutions must work together to address challenges, bridge the digital divide, and promote responsible and sustainable digital transformations.

Arguments

The governments have to adapt their regulation and also to adapt their digital solutions.

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Countries, irrespective of the development level, can participate equally with digitization.

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Concerns regarding precision, transparency, and cybersecurity should be addressed through digitized systems.

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Digitization for IPAs has two objectives: to simplify the procedures and to enhance transparency.

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Shared digital platforms like websites, portals developed allow sharing information about investment opportunities, procedures and procedure costs.

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Digital technology requires technical expertise and funding, however ready-to-use solutions developed by organizations like UNCTAD effectively help in reducing these costs.

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Report

The analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the importance and benefits of digitalisation in various sectors. One key finding is the need for governments to adapt regulations and digital solutions to facilitate trade and improve efficiency. By implementing a single window system for external trade and connecting with customs, Comoros has demonstrated the positive impact of such measures.

This highlights the potential for other governments to follow suit and enhance their regulatory frameworks and digital infrastructure. Another significant point highlighted in the analysis is that digitisation enables equal participation in the digital realm, promoting economic competition. Regardless of the development level of countries, they can all participate equally by harnessing the power of digitisation.

This presents opportunities for economic growth and reducing inequalities among nations. Addressing concerns regarding transparency, cybersecurity, and precision is crucial in the digital era. The analysis suggests that these issues can be effectively tackled through the implementation of digitised systems.

For example, the reform of payment systems and recognition of electronic signatures by states are important considerations to ensure the security and transparency of digital transactions. Digitalisation also plays a crucial role in enhancing investment promotion agencies (IPAs). By adopting digital solutions, IPAs can access the same information, simplifying procedures, and ensuring transparency.

This streamlines investment processes and creates a conducive environment for attracting and retaining investment. The analysis also emphasises the value of shared digital platforms in facilitating information sharing about investment opportunities. These platforms, such as websites and portals, provide a centralised hub for sharing vital information about investment procedures and costs.

This promotes partnerships and collaboration in achieving Sustainable Development Goals related to industry, innovation, and infrastructure. Additionally, the importance of collective capacity building is highlighted. The analysis suggests that by enhancing capacity building initiatives, organisations can equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilise digital tools.

This approach reduces dependency on third-party companies and allows for more efficient utilisation of resources. Lastly, the analysis highlights the significance of ready-to-use solutions developed by organisations like UNCTAD. These solutions help reduce the cost of developing and training for the use of digitised systems.

This makes digital technology more accessible and affordable, promoting wider adoption and implementation. In conclusion, the analysis underscores the critical role of digitalisation across sectors, including trade, competition, investment promotion, and capacity building. By adapting regulations, enhancing digital solutions, and addressing concerns related to transparency and cybersecurity, governments can benefit from improved efficiency and increased opportunities for economic growth.

Collaboration through shared digital platforms and the use of ready-to-use solutions further support the adoption of digital technologies. It is essential for policymakers and organisations to recognise the potential of digitalisation and take proactive steps towards its implementation.

Arguments

Digital inclusion is crucial for bringing LDCs into the digital mainstream and enhancing sustainability of supply chains.

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Digitization of end-to-end trade transactions is equivalent to saving a significant amount of carbon emissions if scaled.

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EIF has supported various digital projects enhancing supply chain sustainability - one example is the electronic single window in Vanuatu.

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EIF has also supported Rwanda's e-waste policy, which involves reusing plastics and metals and safely destroying hazardous waste.

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Digitally-based traceability system in Nepal supported by EIF can help reduce rates of organic tea rejection.

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LDCs can attract green investments and promote exports growth by utilizing digital technology

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Report

Digital inclusion is essential for bringing least developed countries (LDCs) into the digital mainstream and enhancing the sustainability of supply chains. Currently, only one-third of people in LDCs are connected, leaving the remaining two-thirds without access to digital technologies and connectivity.

Furthermore, digitizing end-to-end trade transactions can have a significant positive impact on the environment, with an estimated saving of approximately 13 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in the Asia-Pacific region alone. This highlights the potential of digital technologies to contribute to climate action and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 13.

One concrete example of the Enhanced Integrated Framework's (EIF) support for digital projects is the Electronic Single Window (ESW) in Vanuatu. Implemented by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the ESW has streamlined trade processes by reducing biosecurity certification paperwork by 95% and decreasing the time needed to provide certificates from six days to just 10 minutes.

This demonstrates the transformative power of digital solutions in enhancing supply chain sustainability and reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies. EIF's support also extends to addressing e-waste challenges. For instance, in partnership with a UAE-based company, EIF has supported Rwanda's e-waste policy, focusing on reprocessing waste and safely destroying hazardous materials.

This contributes to responsible consumption and production, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 12. Nepal has also benefited from EIF's digital support through the implementation of a digitally-based traceability system for organic tea. This system has increased queries from buyers, potentially opening up new export opportunities and facilitating progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 2 to ensure zero hunger.

Additionally, EIF's diagnostic work helps LDCs by understanding their specific needs, priorities, and challenges, enabling the refinement of legislations and procedures to create a more business-friendly environment. For example, with EIF's support, Bhutan developed e-regulation, a digital tool that improved transparency and played a vital role in mobilising significant investments.

This highlights the potential of digital technology to attract green investments and promote economic growth, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 8. In conclusion, EIF's efforts in supporting digital projects and digital inclusion in LDCs have resulted in significant benefits across various areas.

From enhancing supply chain sustainability to reducing carbon emissions, managing e-waste effectively, and increasing export opportunities, digital initiatives have the potential to drive inclusive and sustainable development. Furthermore, EIF's collaboration with other agencies and provision of small funds for de-risking investments and attracting private sector participation underscores the importance of partnerships and fostering an investment ecosystem conducive to sustainable development.

Continued support and investment in digital inclusion in LDCs are crucial for further progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.