Conference language: English
In late 2017, the Friends of E-Commerce began informal negotiations on a possible WTO agreement on e-commerce. The WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference from 30 November – 3 December 2021 is expected to generate fresh momentum in work on the agreement. While the members of the group have already achieved alignment on a number of issues, other topics remain highly contentious. From a social and development policy perspective, the further liberalisation of e-commerce, particularly the institutionalisation of the presumably free flow of data, and exemption from customs duties on electronic goods and transmissions are controversial issues.
Given the significance of the planned agreement, a broader social and political debate about the European position is urgently needed. The sef: Policy Lunch is intended to make a contribution here.
Publication on this topic
Global Governance Spotlight 3|2021
Development opportunity vs. digital colonialism - On the planned WTO agreement on digital trade
Sven Hilbig
November 2021, 4 pages
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