26 Jan 2019

NZ joins WTO drive for standardised online shopping rules

8:17 pm on 26 January 2019

New Zealand will take part in World Trade Organisation negotiations to create a set of rules governing online trading and data flows between borders.

Hands holding credit card and using laptop. Online shopping

Photo: 123RF

Minister for Trade and Export Growth David Parker said that the talks among 76 countries will focus on developing globally consistent rules for e-commerce.

He said it was important robust personal privacy and consumer protections were put in place, while also making it easier for businesses and consumers to trade online.

Globally, e-commerce is growing rapidly with consumer spending online doubling in the last five years.

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