UNCTAD, Launched the First Global Database To Track E-Commerce Value
United Nations Trade and Development Conference (UNCTAD), aiming to close the large data gaps in the rapidly growing digital economy, brought into life the world’s first global database that brings together national e-commerce value estimates. The initiative, was announced at an international expert meeting attended by representatives from 42 countries and revealed that the need for reliable measurement for effective policy production is increasingly growing.
United Nations Trade and Development Conference (UNCTAD), aiming to close the large data gaps in the rapidly growing digital economy, brought into life the world’s first global database that brings together national e-commerce value estimates. The initiative, was announced at an international expert meeting attended by representatives from 42 countries and revealed that the need for reliable measurement for effective policy production is increasingly growing.
The new database, aims to present a clearer picture regarding the scale of e-commerce at the global level and to make visible the ongoing serious information deficiencies especially in developing countries. Experts, emphasized that without accurate and comprehensive data countries face the risk of falling behind in regulating digital trade and benefiting from it.
There Are No Statistical Systems That Can Capture the Volume of Social Media E-Commerce
E-commerce and digitally delivered services, in recent years took place among the fastest growing areas of the global economy and their growth rates exceeded overall economic growth. Despite this, in most countries there are no statistical systems that can comprehensively capture the value of online sales, cross-border digital trade and the rapidly increasing volume of commerce conducted through social media.
At the sixth meeting of the UN Trade and Development’s Working Group on Measuring E-Commerce, it was stated that these data gaps weaken evidence-based policy production. Insufficient measurement, while limiting the effectiveness of tax policies, competition regulations, consumer protection mechanisms and digital trade agreements, also hides inequalities in digital access. In addition, it disrupts efforts to support the participation of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in online markets.
At the meeting, it was emphasized that measurement and governance are inseparable. Without reliable data, it is not considered possible to accurately evaluate the economic impact of digitalization and to ensure that the benefits of e-commerce are shared in an inclusive manner across society.
Call for Standard and Technology-Neutral Frameworks
Experts participating in the meeting, called for the development of comparable, simple and technology-neutral statistical frameworks among countries. It was stated that such frameworks, while preventing fragmentation and duplication in data collection, would enable meaningful international comparisons to be made.
Participants also drew attention to the importance of innovative tools in measurement methods. The use of electronic payment records, administrative data and data mining techniques in addition to traditional surveys, was shown among methods that could increase the accuracy and timeliness of e-commerce statistics. It was stated that this approach could also reduce the reporting burden on businesses.
Throughout the meeting, the importance of cooperation among governments, the private sector and international organizations was emphasized. While concerns over the decrease in international development financing were voiced, it was stated that coherent and coordinated measurement practices at the global level are critical for countries wishing to keep pace with digital transformation.
Preparation For New Elements Of The Digital Economy
The working group, recommended that core e-commerce indicators be comprehensively reviewed in 2026. It was stated that this evaluation could include new elements of the digital economy such as artificial intelligence, platform-based business models, remote work and fully digital services.
At the same time, the Task Group on Measuring E-Commerce Value was encouraged to complete detailed guidelines and recommendations regarding the measurement of e-commerce. It is planned that these guidelines be disseminated through expanded capacity development programs to be carried out via cooperation with international and regional organizations.
It was stated that the support provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia would contribute to the scaling up of technical assistance activities, especially in developing countries.
With the implementation of the global database and the advancement of a common measurement agenda, UN Trade and Development aims to make the digital economy statistically more visible and understandable. Officials stated that this step is of critical importance for rapid digital transformation to contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic development worldwide.