Economic development in a digital world: Prospects, pitfalls and policy options

Digital technologies have already transformed how people communicate, learn, work and shop. They are also changing the geography of economic activity through their impact on corporate strategy, investment behaviour and trade flows. From a development perspective, the promise of digitalization is that it will open new sectors, promote new markets, boost innovation and generate the productivity gains needed to lift living standards in developing countries. Fulfilling this promise of a new digital future will, for many developing countries, require an ambitious programme of infrastructure support and skills training. However, assessing the wider use and impact of these new technologies, particularly with respect to the 2030 Development Agenda, cannot be divorced from the economic environment in which they are nested.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Decent Work and Economic Growth

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Reduced Inequalities