Preamble:

Advances in computer and telecommunications technologies and services promise to streamline and expand global commerce. The progressive implementation of these technologies and services has enabled businesses in all parts of the world to expand their sales and lower their costs, to the benefit of their customers, employees and other interested persons.

Over 50 million people in 160 countries now have access to the Internet, and the number of users is expected to grow at approximately 10 percent per month. Electronic commerce sales, including those over the Internet, are projected to grow from $700 million in 1995 to $230 billion in the year 2000.

Statement:

The Pacific Basin Economic Council (PBEC) believes that the facilitation of electronic commerce will increase global economic growth. Advances made in electronic commerce will benefit businesses in every sector and consumers across the globe.

Agreed rules in some areas of electronic commerce are needed to promote its growth. Uncertainties caused by different national legislation and administrative structures, and by insufficient understanding of the complex issues surrounding the development of global electronic commerce, can inhibit further progress.

Despite the complexity and diversity of the legal and policy issues surrounding electronic commerce, there are certain broad principles that are essential to its successful development. Governments everywhere should recognize the leading role of the business sector in the development of electronic commerce and they should avoid imposing unnecessary restrictions. When legislation is necessary, the rules should be simple, balanced, and within a legal framework that is consistent across international borders. Governments should lead by example by maximizing usage of electronic commerce in their own activities.

PBEC applauds the decision of the APEC leaders in Vancouver to launch a "work program on electronic commerce in the region, taking into account relevant activities of other international fora." This work program and that of ABAC must take into consideration the needs and interests of users of electronic commerce, as well as the needs of suppliers and providers, in order to realize the economic and social benefits of electronic commerce in the region.

PBEC's work in this area will be grounded in education. PBEC will encourage region-wide educational activities to foster understanding and increased usage of electronic commerce. PBEC also urges governments to educate actual and potential users of electronic commerce. PBEC will work in partnership with governments in the run-up to the November 1998 APEC Leaders' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur in promoting broader understanding of electronic commerce and its implications.

Endorsed by the PBEC Steering Committee 05/24/98
Adopted by the PBEC Board of Directors 05/24/98