trade digitalisation
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On April 27, the National Internet Information Office released the “China Network Rule of Law Development Report (2024)”, the first comprehensive annual report on network rule of law at the national department level. This report serves as a continuation of the “30 Years of China’s Network Rule of Law” report and marks the beginning of Read more
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International Trade Centre created document “Expediting Trade Through Electronic Bills of Lading” focuses on the growing use of electronic bills of lading (eBLs) in global trade, an innovative digital solution that offers numerous advantages over traditional paper-based systems. It explores the economic, environmental, and security benefits of adopting eBLs, as well as the challenges that Read more
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The recent study titled “Study on MSME Participation in the Circular Economy”, published by the ASEAN Secretariat with support from GIZ, provides an in-depth analysis of the role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in advancing circular economy (CE) practices within the ASEAN region. This study validates policy recommendations aimed at enhancing MSME engagement Read more
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Impact of Trade Digitalization on Trade, Wages, and Producer Prices: Global, Regional, and National Estimates
This comprehensive study, published by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) in April 2025, was prepared by Chorthip Utoktham and Yann Duval. It investigates the macroeconomic implications of trade digitalization, particularly its influence on international trade flows, real wages, and producer prices, using an innovative and data-driven Read more
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Next Steps in Hong Kong’s Digital Economy and Trade Development Strategy (2025 Update)
Based on the opening remarks by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development at the Legislative Council Finance Committee special meeting on April 11, 2025, Hong Kong is implementing a multifaceted strategy to enhance its digital economy and international trade position. Key initiatives include: 1. Strengthening Hong Kong as an International Trade Hub 2. Promoting Read more
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2025 National Trade Estimate Report: Barriers, Policy Challenges, and U.S. Trade Response
The 2025 National Trade Estimate (NTE) Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, published by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), is an annual assessment that identifies and evaluates key foreign trade barriers affecting U.S. exports, investment, and digital trade. This report provides valuable insights into global trade challenges and helps shape U.S. trade Read more
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Less is More: Proposals to Simplify and Improve European Rule-Making in the Financial Services Sector
The report “Less is More“, authored by an expert group in February 2025 presents a critical analysis of the current regulatory framework governing the European financial services sector. It highlights the inefficiencies and complexities within the existing rule-making process and proposes strategies for simplifying and enhancing financial regulations. The report was published with the support Read more
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Advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area: Strategic Actions for Sustainable Development
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents one of the most ambitious initiatives for economic integration on the continent. As outlined in the Economic Report on Africa 2025 (ERA 2025), this agreement has the potential to reshape Africa’s trade landscape, fostering intra-African commerce, boosting industrialization, and enhancing global competitiveness. However, to realize its full Read more
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Elevating EU-ASEAN Relations: Towards Modern and Innovative Trade Agreements and Strategic Cooperation
The European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have long maintained a robust trade relationship, serving as pivotal economic partners on the global stage. As of 2024, the EU stands as ASEAN’s third-largest trading partner, while ASEAN ranks as the EU’s fifth-largest partner. This interdependence fosters mutual economic growth and geopolitical Read more
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Analysis of “Digital Public Infrastructure and Development: A World Bank Group Approach”
This World Bank report, published in March 2025, serves as a strategic framework for developing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a foundational element of digital transformation. It emphasizes DPI as a set of shared digital systems—such as digital identity, payments, and data-sharing—that governments and private sector players can use to create scalable, efficient, and inclusive Read more
