techUK joins other organisations in calling for an agreement which disciplines unnecessary or discriminatory data localization mandates and data transfer restrictions.
The undersigned organizations applaud the participating economies in the WTO Joint Statement Initiative (JSI) negotiations for their commitment to developing a framework of trade rules to unlock the potential of the Digital 21st Century economy. At a time when the COVID-19 pandemic has forced many aspects of public and commercial life into a remote environment, continued economic development, innovation, and employment depend upon cross-border access to digitally delivered services and technologies and upon the responsible and seamless movement of data across borders.
Our organizations and their member companies are active across the world and across economic sectors. Among other priorities, the ability to access technology and transfer data securely across international digital networks is of central importance to our operations, employees, customers, and supply chain partners, including MSMEs. No business can conduct international trade or commerce without this ability.
The JSI negotiations offer a unique opportunity to reach an international agreement that can help realize the promise of cross-border access to technology and the trusted movement of data across regions. To enhance certainty and economic opportunity, any agreement should discipline unnecessary or discriminatory data localization mandates and data transfer restrictions. Any agreement should also be guided by principles of transparency and interoperability among legal frameworks; should apply across all economic sectors; and should require all countries to adopt or maintain legal frameworks to protect personal information.
We commend the participating economies for their efforts to achieve a robust and meaningful outcome that will spread the benefits of a globally interconnected economy to all.
Sincerely yours,
ACT | The App Association
Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed)