Executive summary

The expansion of the digital economy has transformed the way we produce, consume and do business. Electronic commerce (e-commerce) — the sale or purchase of goods or services ordered over computer networks or online platforms — is a significant segment of the digital economy. With the rapid expansion of e-commerce, increasing calls were made for common rules in the framework of the World Trade Organization (WTO) for governing cross-border e-commerce in goods and services. Such calls were based on the perception that the multilateral trade rules that were built upon traditional forms of trade prevalent in the last century could not adequately address opportunities and challenges associated with e-commerce.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Partnerships for the Goals