UNCTAD rapid e-trade readiness assessments of African least developed countries (et ready): Key statistics, findings and recommendations

Summary

As of December 2018, UNCTAD carried out 7 Rapid eTrade Readiness Assessments in Africa: Burkina Faso, Liberia, Senegal, Togo, Madagascar, Uganda and Zambia. Although each assessment identifies countryspecific barriers and opportunities related to strengthening e-commerce, and provides corresponding policy recommendations, some common themes are emerging. This document compiles the main findings and recommendations common to all assessed African LDCs. Countries need to have a clear idea of their e-commerce readiness to develop strategies for increasing the benefits from e-commerce. National e-commerce strategies can help accelerate, mobilize and strengthen the effectiveness of available resources and efforts among stakeholders to harness the power of e-commerce for economic growth and socioeconomic development. They should be developed through a participatory consultation process that promotes multi-stakeholder involvement. They should be coherent with national development and trade strategies, and aim to maximize the benefits of e-commerce accruing to all.