This session addresses the opportunities and challenges developing and least developed countries face in nurturing digital trade for development and the informed choices decision makers confront in this regard. The fast pace of changes in the way global trade is conducted and the increasing influence digital technologies exert on such changes cannot be overstated. Yet considerable differences in preparedness – in policy frameworks, regulatory regimes, digital literacy and physical infrastructure – continue to affect the ability of developing countries to fully leverage the development promise of the digital age. This session will discuss the various tools the international trade community has at disposal to ensure that all stakeholders can take advantage of digital trade and how international cooperation can help overcome digital divides and produce tangible development dividends in a rapidly digitalizing environment.
Pierre Sauve - World Bank
Usha DWARKA-CANABADY - Permanent Mission of the Republic of Mauritius
Erwin Bollinger - Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the WTO
Prasith SUON - Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the World Trade Organisation and other International Organisations (Economy &Trade)