The Wto The Internet And Trade In Digital Products

The rapid development of the Internet has led to a growing potential for electronic trade in digital content like movies, music and software. As a result, there is a need for a global trade framework applicable to such digitally-delivered content products. Yet, digital trade is currently not explicitly recognised by the trade rules and obligations of the World Trade Organization (WTO). This study provides a complete analysis of the related challenges in the ongoing WTO Doha Negotiations to remedy this state of affairs. It elaborates on the required measures in the multilateral negotiations to.

The rapid development of the Internet has led to a growing potential for electronic trade in digital content like movies, music and software. As a result, there is a need for a global trade framework applicable to such digitally-delivered content products. Yet, digital trade is currently not explicitly recognised by the trade rules and obligations of the World Trade Organization (WTO). This study provides a complete analysis of the related challenges in the ongoing WTO Doha Negotiations to remedy this state of affairs. It elaborates on the required measures in the multilateral negotiations to achieve market access for digital content and examines the obstacles that lie on the path to reach consensus between the United States and the European Communities. Negotiation parameters analysed include the current US and EC regulatory approach to audiovisual and information society services and the evolution of their applicable trade policy jurisdiction. Finally, this examination takes stock of how the Doha Negotiations and parallel US-driven preferential trade agreement have so far contributed to securing free trade in digital content. As new technologies are an increasingly prominent source of trade dispute, this book is an assessment of how WTO Members can maintain the relevance of the multilateral trade framework in a changing technological and economic environment. "This important work highlights the missed opportunity in on-going global trade talks -- the failure to pursue a free trade framework for digitally delivered content. If not corrected, one can readily imagine the rise of discriminatory barriers to digital trade of the type that have dogged global trade flows for years, and a failed recognition by the WTO of the reality of modern commerce. The WTO should, as the author argues, put a "spotlight" on electronic trade, and move forward in a comprehensive fashion." Ambassador Charlene Barshefsky, Former United States Trade Representative "Wunsch-Vincent provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges to establish a liberal trade regime for trade in digital products. This book will become an important point-of-reference for anybody interested in e-commerce and the WTO." Carlos A. Primo Braga, Senior Adviser, International Trade Department, The World Bank

Doctoral Thesis / Dissertation from the year 2023 in the subject Business economics - Trade and Distribution, , language: English, abstract: This doctoral dissertation deals with rules on digital trade in the light of WTO agreements. Digital trade has brought about profound changes in the international trade framework. Traditional trade, which primarily involved the exchange of physical goods, has now expanded to encompass a wide range of digitally delivered services, online transactions, and data flows. This transformation has been driven by advancements in technology and the increasing interconnectedness of the global economy. The digital economy encompasses various digital technologies and platforms and has become a significant driver of economic growth and innovation. It allows businesses to reach international markets more quickly and efficiently, transcending geographical barriers. The internet, mobile devices, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence have facilitated this digital transformation. These technologies enable seamless communication, data storage and processing, automation, and personalised services, revolutionising how businesses operate and engage in international trade. Digital trade has created new opportunities for businesses of all sizes. Small and medium-sized enterprises have benefited from the ability to access global markets through digital platforms and e-commerce. These platforms provide a means for Small and medium-sized enterprises to connect with potential customers worldwide, establish their presence, and market their products and services without needing a physical presence in foreign markets. This has lowered entry barriers and empowered Small and medium-sized enterprises to participate in global value chains, expanding their reach and contributing to economic growth. One of the notable developments in the digital trade era is the rise of platform-based businesses. These platforms, such as e-commerce marketplaces, ride-sharing services, and online payment systems, act as intermediaries connecting buyers and sellers across borders. They facilitate transactions, provide infrastructure and services, and enable businesses to expand their customer base globally. Platforms have become influential players in international trade, shaping market dynamics and redefining traditional trading system.

This comprehensive Research Handbook analyzes the impact of the rapid growth of digital trade on businesses, consumers, and regulators. Leading experts provide theoretical and practical insight into how to manage the legal and policy challenges of the global digital economy.

An exploration of the current state of global trade law in the era of Big Data and AI. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.

In the age of information, an open Internet is a key component for modern economic development. This book analyses the World Trade Organization Agreement for virtual society and explores key questions regarding internet regulation and trade barriers. Information and communication technology has introduced a transformational element to international trade, in the shape of e-commerce. Although internet technology is conceptually neutral, it can be used as a medium that poses severe threats to individual rights, public morals, public order, and national security. World Trade Organization law and jurisprudence, which are the basis of global economic and trade rules, can be applied in cyberspace but internet regulatory measures can also pose a threat to free trade. This book thus explores the following questions: whether internet regulation constitutes a trade barrier; if so, what form does that take; and whether WTO members can invoke exception clauses to justify their internet regulatory measures? The research provides deep interpretations on treaty law and case law, and draws on additional interdisciplinary approaches to answer these questions. This book will be of great interest to Scholars and Students of law, with a focus on international trade and internet regulation, as well as anyone interested in Chinese cyber law.

Internet governance is a simple term without a simple definition. In the name of Internet sovereignty, nations have begun to implement various regulations to control the flow of information within or across their virtual territorial boundaries. The unique interconnected and multilateral characteristics of the Internet renders it impossible for one nation alone to provide adequate solutions to managing the Internet. The author argues that many of the issues related to Internet governance should be allocated to international institutions and a nation's sovereign power over the Internet should be bounded by its commitments and responsibilities under international law. In the absence of a coherent regulatory framework, this book examines whether the existing international legal systems are sufficiently generic to accommodate the challenges brought about by technological developments.