The WTO Joint Initiative stabilised ‘Agreement on Electronic commerce’: Looking at the broader picture
E-commerce and trade Blogs
After almost seven years of discussions and formal negotiations, the WTO Joint Statement Initiative on e-commerce (JSI) has produced a stabilised 'Agreement on Electronic commerce'. This milestone represents an important achievement for the…
AI Accountability and Digital Trade: Policy Options for the UK
E-commerce and trade, Events Artificial Intelligence
Everyday interactions are mediated by algorithms, with significant impacts for the individual, economies, and wider society. The AI-as-a-service global market is growing rapidly, and governments are struggling to regulate this phenomenon effectively.…
WTO e-commerce Moratorium: The last renewal?
E-commerce and trade EconomicThe WTO extended the Moratorium on Customs Duties on Electronic Transmissions until 2026, potentially for the last time, due to the evolving nature of dematerialized products like music and video. There were contrasting views on its permanence, with diplomatic nuances in wording suggesting future non-renewal. The extension in Abu Dhabi was seen as a compromise, hinting at the end of the Moratorium era. While a renewal in the future is possible, the political atmosphere surrounding the issue indicates slim chances. Discussions on e-commerce and new agreements may influence the fate of the Moratorium beyond 2026.
13th WTO Ministerial Conference: What is at stake for digital trade?
Conferences, E-commerce and trade E-commerce and trade, Economic, Geopolitics, Globalisation, International law, International relations and diplomacy, Politics and governance, Public policy BlogsThe 13th WTO Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi will address various trade issues, including digital trade. Key topics include the extension of the moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions and ongoing negotiations on digital policy. The conference might not yield major breakthroughs, but discussions on e-commerce continue, with differing views on extending the moratorium. The conference will also consider the impact of Joint Initiatives on trade liberalization and regulatory cooperation to reduce technical barriers to trade. While outcomes may not dramatically alter the e-commerce landscape, they could emphasize the importance of plurilateral agreements in governing digital trade.
G20 trade measures becoming more restrictive, says WTO report.
E-commerce and trade E-commerce and trade, SDGs diplomacy UpdatesThe 30th WTO Trade Monitoring Report reveals that G20 economies have implemented more trade-restrictive measures on goods in recent months. While there are also trade-facilitating measures, the trend is concerning as it goes against economic stability and growth. The report highlights export restrictions on food, feed, and fertilizers, which contribute to shortages and price volatility. The WTO Director-General calls on G20 economies to roll back trade restrictions and keep global markets open and predictable. The report is released amidst slow growth in world trade, and G20 economies play a crucial role in strengthening the WTO.
Meeting with UNCTAD’s Team for E-commerce
E-commerce and trade Geneva Digital Talks EventsIn the meeting with the UNCTAD team for E-commerce, important discussions and plans were made regarding the development and promotion of e-commerce on a global scale. The team's dedication and expertise were evident, and strategies were devised to enhance collaboration and support in this vital area of economic growth and digital transformation.
Diplo @ UNCTAD eWeek
E-commerce and trade Panels and conferences E-commerce and trade, Economic, Internet governance and digital policy EventsDiplo will participate in the 2023 edition of s eWeek focusing on the digital economy, with sessions covering topics like digital trade, consumer grievance redressal mechanisms, and the implications of technology on human imperfection. Key speakers such as Jovan Kurbalija will share insights. High-level panels and interactive discussions will address the challenges and benefits of technology, with just-in-time reporting provided by the Digital Watch observatory.
Digital transformation among the priorities of Germany’s new strategy for Africa
Access, Capacity development, E-commerce and trade, Telecommunications infrastructure Access, Capacity development, E-commerce and trade, Telecommunications infrastructure UpdatesGermany's new Africa Strategy emphasizes digital transformation as a key priority among other goals, aiming to support African development in alignment with the continent's initiatives. The strategy focuses on engaging in respectful dialogue with Africa, advocating for African representation in international forums, and contributing to the growth of digital economies. Additionally, Germany plans to support various sectors like women's economic participation, healthcare, and the public sector through digitalization efforts.
US government launches Digital Transformation with Africa initiative
Access, Capacity development, Critical infrastructure, E-commerce and trade, Telecommunications infrastructure Access, Capacity development, Critical infrastructure UpdatesThe US government has launched the Digital Transformation with Africa initiative, committing over $350 million to expand digital access and literacy in Africa. The initiative focuses on three pillars: digital economy and infrastructure, human capital development, and digital enabling environments, aiming to support African Union and sub-Saharan Africa strategies.
Advanced Diploma in Internet Governance
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