At a meeting on the Work Programme on E-commerce on 17 February 2025, WTO members shared experiences on legal and regulatory frameworks for e-commerce, with a special focus on consumer protection, privacy and data protection, and cyber security. Members also reflected on the role of the WTO in fostering regulatory frameworks that facilitate e-commerce.

Members identified significant challenges faced by small economies in digital trade, noting that legal progress in the digital domain has not always translated into substantial digital growth.

Members emphasized the need for increased capacity-building initiatives focused on developing legal and regulatory frameworks, particularly for developing economies. These initiatives are essential for empowering these countries to participate more effectively in the global digital economy, they said. Members underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation with other international organizations to undertake targeted capacity building and technical assistance programmes regarding e-commerce regulatory frameworks

To guide members in improving their e-commerce regulatory frameworks, some members proposed developing a compendium of best practices and policy recommendations. This compendium would draw on the experiences and legislation of members, particularly in areas such as consumer protection, privacy, data protection and cybersecurity.

Members highlighted the need to explore emerging issues, such as the implications of AI technology on members' regulatory frameworks and the role of the WTO.

The next dedicated discussion, on 18 March, will address the digital divide, with a focus on technology transfer and digital industrialization.