Costa Rica has successfully acceded to the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA), joining the existing members Singapore, Chile, and New Zealand. This marks a significant expansion of the agreement, which covers digital trade rules, cross-border data flows, and digital economy cooperation. The accession adds a Latin American economy to the Asia-Pacific-led digital trade framework.
Topic Archives:Digital Trade
E-Commerce Law 2025 and Decree 248: Compliance Guide for Businesses
Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade issued guidance on the 2025 E-Commerce Law and implementing Decree 248, outlining compliance requirements for businesses operating in the digital marketplace. The guidance covers regulatory obligations for e-commerce platforms and cross-border digital trade. This represents a named legislative measure with direct implications for digital trade policy.
DGFT Introduces Open API Facility for Certificate of Origin on the Trade Connect e-Platform
India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has launched an Open API facility for Certificate of Origin issuance on the Trade Connect e-Platform, streamlining the digital process for exporters. This enables automated, system-to-system integration for CoO applications, reducing manual intervention in customs and preferential trade documentation.
Government Notifies Inventory-based Cross-border E-Commerce Export Framework under Foreign Trade Policy 2023
India has notified a new inventory-based cross-border e-commerce export framework under its Foreign Trade Policy 2023, establishing regulatory provisions for this export channel. The framework formalizes procedures for e-commerce exporters holding inventory for cross-border shipments. This represents a specific policy measure aimed at facilitating digital trade exports.
Ambassador Greer Issues Statement on EU Creating Uncertainty in Transatlantic Trade Relationship
USTR Ambassador Greer criticized the EU’s nearly $1 billion fine on Google as part of an aggressive pattern targeting U.S. technology firms, framing it as creating uncertainty in the Turnberry Agreement governing transatlantic trade. The statement signals U.S. concern that EU digital enforcement actions are undermining the bilateral trade framework. This touches on digital trade […]
WCO Data Model Version 4.3.0 Released at 30th Anniversary Milestone
The WCO has published Data Model Version 4.3.0, approved by the WCO Council in June 2026, marking the model’s 30th anniversary. The release was celebrated via a public webinar attended by over 420 participants worldwide. The WCO Data Model standardizes customs data for cross-border trade interoperability.
WTO TBT Committee reviews emerging technology standards, adopts improved notification formats
The WTO TBT Committee met July 7-10, 2026, addressing standards for critical/emerging technologies, climate-resilient buildings, and lithium-ion batteries. The Committee adopted improvements to transparency procedures and digital notification tools. Members also reviewed 70 specific trade concerns.
Ministry of Industry and Trade disseminates E-Commerce Law and Decree No. 248/2026/NĐ-CP
Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade held a dissemination event for the new E-Commerce Law and its implementing Decree No. 248/2026/NĐ-CP. These instruments establish the regulatory framework for digital trade and e-commerce activities in Vietnam. The specific provisions of the decree likely cover platform obligations, cross-border e-commerce, and related digital trade rules.
CPTPP Joint Ministerial Statement on Expansion, Implementation, and Cooperation
CPTPP ministers issued a joint statement covering the agreement’s expansion, implementation, and cooperation. The statement addresses ongoing accession processes and operational matters for the trans-Pacific trade bloc. Specific policy outcomes on membership and implementation were announced.
Public Hearing on Proposed Responsive Action in Section 301 Investigation of Brazil
USTR will hold a public hearing on July 6-7 regarding proposed responsive actions in a Section 301 investigation of Brazil covering digital trade, electronic payment services, and unfair trade practices. The hearing is part of the formal process to determine potential trade measures against Brazil. This involves market access, digital trade, and possible tariff or […]