Macroscope | WTO must ensure the benefits of the digital economy are available to every business, everywhere
Ready information and burgeoning platforms have expanded opportunities. But we are yet to close the digital divide for many individuals and communities
In managing transactions within and among nations, providing services, and supplying information, the digital economy has become a powerful enabler of economic activity.
Its contribution to growth and productivity is considerable and continues to expand. The technological revolution underlying this virtual world also offers new access and integration opportunities to otherwise excluded communities.
Harnessing the benefits of digitisation requires intergovernmental cooperation.
Following its release from the shackles of a stalled Doha Round at the end of last year, the World Trade Organisation has started discussions on electronic commerce.
In the view of many, the WTO is the international forum where policies need to be shaped and agreed.
The WTO is not a newcomer to the issue. A Work Programme on Electronic Commerce was initiated in 1998. But engagement has been sporadic and progress elusive. This has changed in the last few months. July saw no fewer than seven proposals from an array of governments on how to promote and regulate digital trade.
