The World Trade Organization (WTO) has launched a new e-Learning series titled "Trade in the Digital Era," aimed at providing developing economies with the knowledge needed to navigate digital trade. This initiative is part of the WTO's Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation's capacity-building programs, available through their e-Learning platform.
Director-General Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the potential benefits of digital trade for developing economies, stating: “The move to digital trade gives developing economies opportunities to leap forward and some have done so with mobile payment and banking solutions.” She noted that access to modern information and communication technologies alone is insufficient. A comprehensive understanding of the digital trade landscape, including its opportunities, challenges, policies, and trade rules, is necessary.
The series targets government officials involved in trade policy-making as well as the general public. It consists of five courses set to be released over several months. The initial course provides an overview of how digital advancements are reshaping trade and highlights both benefits and challenges associated with the digital economy.
Subsequent courses will address policy issues related to WTO rules, discuss new technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain in international trade, and explore regional trade agreements concerning digital economy aspects.
WTO Deputy Director-General Xiangchen Zhang also addressed attendees at the launch ceremony. He acknowledged concerns raised during the 13th Ministerial Conference about bridging the digital divide: “During the 13th Ministerial Conference, many of you expressed concerns about the digital divide and the need to build developing economies' capacities so that they may seize the benefits of digital trade."
Rwanda's WTO Ambassador James Ngango expressed optimism about participation from various regions: “I sincerely hope that this capacity-building opportunity will attract many participants from across regions and contribute to further unlocking the potential of digital trade.”
Singapore's Ambassador Hung Seng Tan highlighted Singapore’s commitment to supporting capacity-building efforts: “Singapore recognises the critical importance of capacity-building and sharing of technical knowledge on digital trade for developing and least-developed country members."