National study on digital trade integration on Pakistan

Abstract

<p>This report provides an overview of digital trade integration of Pakistan. It identifies constraints and bottlenecks in achieving successful and sustainable regional digital trade integration. The methodology relies on an extensive review of recent literature and policies within and outside Pakistan. In particular, the report looks at post-pandemic evidence with regard to digital trade integration. In-depth interviews were conducted with relevant public sector bodies, regulatory organizations, the private sector, citizen groups, think tanks, development partners and other related stakeholders. The report considers digital trade in goods and services involving digitally-enabled transactions involving consumers, firms and Governments. The analysis highlights the constraints that hinder trade and foreign investment in digital trade. The legislative and regulatory requirements for transfer, retention and protection of data, together with the constraints faced in the transition towards the digitization of the economy are discussed. The recommendations made in this report will help to achieve goals under recent policies announced for the uplifting of the digital sector. The report recommends a whole-of-the-government approach to ensuring federal- and provincial-level coordination as well as keeping digital trade integration inclusive.</p> <p><strong>This series also include:&nbsp;<a href="https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12870/3827">Regional Integration and Cooperation of Pakistan in Health-related Sector</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12870/3829">National Action Plan Promoting Pakistan's Digital Trade Integration in the Asia-Pacific Region</a>.</strong></p>