Call for barrier-free e-commerce

This is not a simple issue. The EC Directive on e-commerce is languishing in its discussion phase, and the government's proposed e-commerce bill was recently the subject of sharp criticism.

Now, two industry heavyweights have joined forces to lobby Trade Ministers for an open and unrestricted framework.

The Business Software Alliance and the Information Technology Industry Council have issued a joint white paper timed to precede the next meeting of the World Trade Organisation. In this, they set out their view of the positive actions needed to secure the future prosperity of e-commerce.

The BSA and ITIC say that existing barriers, capital requirements for example, are so low that virtually any organisation or country can get involved. That is the way it should stay, they argue.

It is amazing how this economic sector continues to grow, despite (is that the right word?) the limited regulatory framework.

Elliott Chase