The GMS Digital Economy Cooperation Initiative was developed and proposed by the People’s Republic of China, with support from other GMS member countries, and was endorsed at the 25th GMS Ministerial Meeting. This initiative establishes a cooperation framework to promote comprehensive digitalization and the use of advanced technology in all GMS program activities and projects, with the following focus areas:
Facilitating trade and investment by promoting cross-border e-commerce systems, reducing trade procedure complexities, enhancing broad consumer access to businesses, increasing digital trade capabilities, driving transformation of traditional trade models to more efficient trade practices
Accelerating digital connectivity by building digital infrastructure, improving telecommunications access efficiency, and increasing broadband penetration rates
Promoting digital technology innovation by encouraging government agencies, state enterprises, investment institutions, and research institutions to share experiences to identify best practices in promoting innovation and improving innovation transfer, strengthening cooperation with international organizations to promote digital standards compatibility and mutual recognition
Accelerating digital financial system development by encouraging international and regional financial institutions to support critical digital infrastructure investment through capital and public financial products
Enhancing digital inclusiveness by strengthening capabilities and technological assistance to cultivate digital skills and increase participation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and women
Establishing digital governance systems by strengthening dialogue and coordination on key issues with consideration for mutual interests, exploring approaches to enhance cooperation in sharing legal, regulatory, standards, and policy measure information
Recent Progress
GMS member countries are in the process of defining the scope and dimensions of GMS digital transformation, as well as identifying appropriate entry points for participation in the GMS program to support each country’s digital transformation process
