Suva, Fiji – 25 February 2025 – The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) has unveiled ePulse, its newest digital solution designed to help Forum Member Countries monitor the progress on implementation of their national e-commerce strategies. The launch took place during the Pacific Aid-for-Trade (AfT) Day, where PIFS provided updates on its AfT initiatives, including Quality Infrastructure, E-commerce, Trade Facilitation and Services.

ePulse is a web-based monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system that enables governments and their partners to track strategy implementation in real time. It builds on PIFS’ regional M&E system, introduced in 2023 and integrated with the Pacific E-commerce Portal. To meet the need for a customised national-level tool, PIFS expanded ePulse to help countries track their e-commerce strategies more effectively.

By providing a structured and accessible way to measure implementation, ePulse aims to strengthen decision-making, improve transparency, and ensure accountability in e-commerce development across the region.

The system offers:

• Real-time tracking through a dedicated web application (the ePulse App) that connects the M&E government unit or department with and implementing agencies (other departments, organisations, etc).
• Custom integration with the Pacific E-commerce Portal, enabling countries to visualize progress through clear infographics and dashboards.
• Long-term support, including secondment opportunities for national officers to develop expertise in M&E systems andand continuous access to technical support.

Forum Member Countries interested in adopting ePulse for e-commerce must meet three key requirements:

1. A finalised national e-commerce strategy to ensure clear objectives and measurable outcomes.
2. Designation of an M&E Officer to oversee implementation and ensure proper data collection.
3. A formal request to PIFS, submitted to the Director of Programmes and Initiatives, specifying the country’s focal point for ePulse implementation.

Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis, with PIFS committed to supporting each country in integrating ePulse into their national e-commerce agenda.

E-commerce has emerged as a critical driver of economic growth in the Pacific, providing opportunities for businesses to expand beyond traditional markets. With ePulse, PIFS is equipping Forum Members with the tools needed to track progress, identify gaps, and enhance policy effectiveness, ensuring that the region continues to advance in the digital economy.

For more information on ePulse and how to join the e-commerce program, Member Countries are encouraged to contact the PIFS E-commerce Unit through their e-commerce focal point.

While currently ePulse is available for e-commerce only, PIFS plans to extend the system to its other AfT initiatives in the future.