Tech Urges WTO E-Commerce Pact That’s 'Inclusive,' ‘Commercially Meaningful’

Efforts to secure World Trade Organization agreement on e-commerce that’s “inclusive, high-standard, and commercially meaningful,” has backing of “global industry,” said 27 tech groups Monday. “Digital trade is critical to the prosperity of all economies,” and to the ability of companies of all sizes “to grow, innovate, and create jobs,” they said. ACT|The App Association, BSA|The Software Alliance, CTA, Internet Association, U.S. Chamber of Commerce and others made 13 recommendations for what a WTO agreement should contain, including a prohibition on internet tariffs and “customs formalities on electronic transmissions,” plus mechanisms to “facilitate the flow of data across borders.” The groups want a WTO agreement that counters “digital protectionism while protecting and promoting consumer trust, fosters inclusivity in digital trade, and generates real commercial value for the global economy,” they said.