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, law and politics, 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.