The Electronic Trade Development Authority (ETDA) held a forum to explore Thailand’s potential to join the Digital Economic Partnership Agreement (DEPA), which has already been adopted by countries such as Singapore, Chile, New Zealand and South Korea. The move highlights the need for Thailand to leverage digital advances, open the door to new business opportunities and strengthen its position in the global digital economy.
The forum highlighted the country’s strengths in electronic commerce, cybersecurity, and the ethical application of innovative technologies such as digital identity and artificial intelligence, and highlighted the country’s readiness to join DEPA.
Professor Wisit Wisisalata, Permanent Secretary at the Department of Digital Economy and Society (DE), emphasized creating an environment that fosters digital commerce. He emphasized the need for an international perspective, citing global organizations such as the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU), which issue regulations that serve as blueprints for transaction law in the digital sector. . This international collaboration is critical given the dynamic nature of digital trade and the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework.
The DEPA agreement, pioneered by Singapore, aims to foster digital trade opportunities by aligning regulations with national development strategies, consumer protection and privacy, and fostering a supportive trade environment. . Several countries have already joined or have expressed interest in joining, including Singapore, Chile, New Zealand, South Korea, China and Canada. Any decision to join Thailand will require careful consideration of its readiness, potential benefits, and expected impact on business and trade.
ETDA played a central role in organizing the forum as the main authority overseeing digital transactions. Based on the OpenGov report, ETDA has made several breakthroughs in the digital technology landscape. As complex financial fraud and fraud continue to be a challenge, ETDA provides valuable information, resources, and solutions to individuals, government agencies, and businesses navigating the digital landscape through ADTE Knowledge Sharing.
Furthermore, through the Digital Law, ETDA ensures effective regulation and compliance with digital law standards. ETDA’s digital law has made it easier for individuals and organizations to combat the financial threats that are emerging today.
ETDA Director Dr. Chaichana Mitrufan said the 16 points in the DEPA agreement cover a range of digital issues such as business and trade facilitation, handling of digital products, data issues, cybersecurity, business and consumer trust, and digital. Published research focused on modules. Identity verification, new trends and technology.
Under these modules, Dr Chaichana will cover electronic transactions, logistics, electronic receipts, express transport, electronic payments, customs duties on digital products, personal data protection, cross-border data transfers, cybersecurity awareness, anti-spam, online These include consumer protection and regulatory cooperation for emerging technologies such as AI.
The study also compared DEPA with previous agreements that Thailand has participated in, such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). This analysis revealed the alignment of AFTA and RCEP provisions with DEPA provisions and showed that Thailand’s existing legal framework is well positioned for her participation in DEPA.
The forum brought together a variety of relevant organizations, including the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Commerce, the Trade and Competition Commission Secretariat, the Consumer Protection Commission Secretariat, the Bank of Thailand, and the Thai Bankers Association. , Thailand Economic and Social Digital Council, Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Federation of Thai Industries, Department of Revenue, Department of Customs, Department of International Trade Negotiations.
While opinions expressed during the forum supported the potential benefits Thailand could derive from joining DEPA, participants emphasized the need for a thorough decision-making process. The importance of gathering input from various stakeholders was highlighted before presenting the brief to policy-level bodies and cabinet for consideration. Dr Chaichana believed that the collaborative efforts and comprehensive analysis of relevant stakeholders are critical to shaping Thailand’s digital future and ensuring the country’s economic and trade benefits.
