Submission to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Consultation on Digital Trade in the Context of the WTO e-Commerce Negotiations

06
Aug

IGEA has made a submission to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s consultation on digital trade in the context of the WTO E-commerce negotiations.

We recognise the leading role that Australia has taken to kick-start the WHO negotiations on trade-related aspects of electronic commerce. Our submission seeks to support the Government’s participation and focus during the negotiations by drawing the following points:

  • Video games are deeply popular with Australians and the inbound digital trade of video games generates significant economic activity within the country, drives demand for a range of related goods and services beyond just games and also supports a multitude of digital and bricks and mortar stores
  • Video games are the ideal digital export for Australia (being weightless, high value and IP-based) and while DFAT has recognised games as both an economic and cultural export priority, the industry needs to be supported through policy so that it can reach its full potential
  • Our key priorities for future negotiations include:
    • Reducing barriers to digital trade by ensuring there are no tariffs or data localisation requirements
    • Reducing barriers to investment and travel, including by liberalising investment rules and visa requirements
    • The importance of maintaining strong copyright protections for content creators like Australian game developers

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