India Advocates for Digital Industrialization and Inclusive E-commerce Policies at WTO Conference

Abu Dhabi:  India emphasized the pivotal role of digital industrialization in the global economy and its potential for fostering economic development, especially in developing countries, during the Working Session on Work Programme on E-Commerce at the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) held today.

In its presentation, India underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to promote digital industrialization, emphasizing that the current landscape of e-commerce is dominated by a handful of firms based in developed countries. India pointed out the significant digital divide between developed and developing nations, posing challenges to the increased participation of developing countries in the global e-commerce sector.

Highlighting the ongoing digital revolution and the rapid diffusion of technologies such as additive manufacturing, 3D printing, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, India called for a re-examination of the implications of the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions, particularly for developing countries and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

India stressed that developing countries must concentrate on enhancing their domestic physical and digital infrastructure, establishing supportive policy and regulatory frameworks, and building digital capabilities. The country shared its own digital transformation journey, attributing it to a commitment to innovation and swift implementation.

India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) approach, aimed at promoting innovation and democratizing technology, has led to a national technology revolution in sectors such as commerce, credit, healthcare, payments, e-governance, and citizen services. The country’s experience demonstrates that a holistic focus on digital infrastructure, skills, education, and enabling policies can drive rapid, population-scale digitalization.

The presentation concluded with India urging WTO members to consider all policy options to advance digital industrialization and ensure inclusive participation in the global e-commerce ecosystem, particularly benefiting developing countries and LDCs. The call for a collaborative effort to bridge the digital gap and create a level playing field in the e-commerce sector echoed through the discussions at the Ministerial Conference.