Launch of the UN Trade Digitalization Index: Mainstreaming Trade in Digital Connectivity

Organizer(s): ECA, ECE, ECLAC, ESCAP, ESCWA, UNCTAD

Trade digitalization, also sometimes referred to as digital trade facilitation or paperless trade, has been increasing recognized as a key element of trade and development policies geared to achieving the sustainable development goals. Digitalization of trade and supply chains is essential to enabling more inclusive trade and enhancing digital connectivity between countries, also enabling governments to ensure the quality of goods traded and reduce CO2 emissions associated with trade transactions. In this context, this event, will introduce the UN Trade Digitalization Index (TDI), a joint effort of the five UN regional commissions and UNCTAD. The TDI measures the extent to which trade digitalization has progressed in over 160 countries and provide a new basis for evidence-based policy making in this important area. Based on the TDI, speakers in the session will discuss how trade digitalization may be best integrated in broader digital transformation and connectivity plans.