How do we define data? How do we derive value from it? How can it be leveraged for inclusive development, and where does trade policy come into achieving these goals?

Breakthroughs in how we interact with data have transformed industries from technology to agriculture to manufacturing, and fundamentally changed the ways that companies and consumers interact with the global economy.

Whereas the benefits of using data are often readily apparent in highly digitized, developed economies, there remain untapped opportunities for developing countries in leveraging data to spur innovations and mobilize development.

Key questions:

1. What is a useful definition of ‘data’ and how do firms and governments derive value from it?
2. How can we harness data and related digital technologies for development, and what practical steps should governments and the private sector take?
3. What role does the WTO and trade policy more generally play in supporting governments, in particular those in developing economies and least developed countries (LDCs), embrace these new opportunities?

In the second portion of the session, the floor will open for a moderated audience discussion guided by the question:

What role does digital trade policy play in encouraging development and how can governments in developing economies and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) embrace these opportunities?

Continue the conversation in the dedicated chat on the Beyond Trade Network.

This session will be simultaneously translated into French, Spanish and English (when needed) via the Interactio application, by entering the code GTW2020 (please use headphones). Open the application in your Web browser or download it for iOS Mobile App or for Android App.