WTO members, in their final dedicated discussion of the year on the E-commerce Work Programme, deliberated on proposals for a ministerial decision at the 13th Ministerial Conference in February 2024.

The first proposal, backed by 21 members, led by Switzerland and Canada, outlines progress under the Work Programme and suggests its continuation, along with an extension of the e-commerce moratorium until MC14.

The second proposal by South Africa emphasizes practical steps, including establishing a fund to address the digital divide and terminating the e-commerce moratorium.

A third proposal from Samoa, on behalf of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific Group, aims to enhance engagement under the reinvigorated 1998 Work Programme and extends the moratorium until MC14.

While common ground exists, differences persist on the moratorium’s future, prompting further discussions in mid-January 2024.