UK (Commonwealth Union)_ In a concerted effort to advance the digital economy and foster e-commerce in the Pacific region, a collaborative initiative has been set into motion by the Commonwealth Connectivity Agenda (CCA), the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the United Nations Conference for Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF). This initiative culminated in a three-day workshop entitled ‘Effective Legal Frameworks for Building the Digital Economy,’ which concluded recently in Suva, Fiji.
The workshop convened a diverse assembly of over 40 participants, including influential policymakers, government officials, senior ICT experts, and legal reform officers deeply engaged in shaping the legal underpinnings of digital trade. Launching the workshop via virtual means, Dr. Arjoon Suddhoo, the Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General, expressed optimism over the gathering, saying, “These three days promise to be filled with illuminating and productive discussions on the various legislative areas of focus that are required to work symbiotically in forging sustainable and resilient digital economies within the Pacific region.”
This training initiative draws upon the collective expertise of regional and international organizations such as the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the International Standards Organization (ISO), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and others. The participants are set to delve into critical legislative components and essential areas of legislation vital for supporting the digital economy. These include electronic transactions, data protection, cross-border data flows, electronic payments, taxation, fintech, regulatory sandboxing, telecommunications, cybersecurity, consumer protection, competition, intellectual property, digital identity and authentication, customs, border management, trade facilitation, and quality infrastructure.
The workshop constitutes an integral component of the Pacific E-commerce Initiative, a multi-stakeholder partnership committed to advancing sustainable growth and alleviating poverty in the Pacific region. E-commerce is at the forefront of the Pacific Aid-for-Trade Strategy 2020-2025. This training endeavor underscores the dedication of the Commonwealth Connectivity Agenda and its collaborative partners to strengthening the digital economy within the Pacific by establishing effective and cohesive legal frameworks. It resonates with the broader vision of the Commonwealth Connectivity Agenda, which seeks to bolster trade and investment connections throughout the Commonwealth.
