trade - WORLDEF

Vietnam and Cambodia Target $20 Billion Trade with Cross-Border E-Commerce Push

PHNOM PENH – Vietnam and Cambodia are strengthening cooperation in cross-border e-commerce as both nations seek to accelerate exports, deepen digital trade ties, and achieve an ambitious bilateral trade target of $20 billion in the coming years.

The initiative was highlighted during a seminar in Phnom Penh jointly organized by Vietnam’s E-commerce and Digital Economy Agency under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), the Vietnam Trade Office in Cambodia, and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC). The event brought together government officials, business leaders, and exporters to discuss how digital commerce can expand market access and create new growth opportunities for companies in both countries.

Bilateral Trade Continues to Grow

Trade between Vietnam and Cambodia exceeded $11.3 billion in 2025, reflecting growing economic ties between the neighboring countries. Officials believe cross-border e-commerce will play a critical role in nearly doubling that figure by enabling businesses-particularly small and medium-sized enterprises-to sell directly to consumers across borders.

Nguyen Anh Vu, head of the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade delegation, described digital commerce as a new engine for economic growth that can strengthen supply chains while expanding export opportunities for local businesses.

Digital Economy Creates New Opportunities

Vietnam remains one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing e-commerce markets. The country’s online retail sector reached an estimated $31 billion in 2025, growing more than 25% year over year, with around 60% of the population shopping online. Cambodia, meanwhile, is experiencing rapid digital transformation driven by increasing internet penetration, a young consumer base, and wider adoption of digital payment solutions.

Officials from both countries noted that their geographic proximity and improving logistics networks create favorable conditions for cross-border online trade, allowing businesses to reach customers more efficiently through digital platforms.

Focus on Business Collaboration

The seminar also explored policies supporting online exports, consumer purchasing trends, e-commerce infrastructure, and future cooperation between Vietnamese and Cambodian businesses. Companies from both countries showcased products and discussed potential commercial partnerships during networking sessions.

Cambodia Chamber of Commerce Vice President Tan Monivann said the country’s digital economy is still developing but can benefit from Vietnam’s experience in e-commerce regulation and digital trade. He also reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to supporting investment in manufacturing, food processing, and technology sectors.

Industry representatives believe stronger digital cooperation will not only increase bilateral trade but also improve supply chain efficiency and enhance regional competitiveness as Southeast Asia’s e-commerce market continues to expand.

As ASEAN economies accelerate digital transformation, Vietnam and Cambodia are positioning cross-border e-commerce as a strategic pillar for export growth, offering businesses faster access to regional and global consumers.

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UK and Kenya Open Negotiations on Landmark Digital Trade Agreement

The United Kingdom and Kenya have officially launched negotiations on a comprehensive digital trade agreement designed to strengthen economic ties, expand digital commerce, and attract greater technology investment between the two countries.

The proposed agreement is expected to establish a modern framework for digital trade by improving the flow of online services, supporting innovation, and reducing barriers for businesses operating across both markets. The initiative reflects the growing importance of digital economies in international trade and builds on the long-standing commercial relationship between the UK and Kenya.

Focus on E-Commerce and Digital Innovation

Negotiators aim to create rules that facilitate cross-border digital transactions while encouraging investment in technology-driven industries. The agreement is expected to benefit businesses ranging from startups and fintech firms to e-commerce platforms and digital service providers.

Among the key objectives are improving regulatory cooperation, promoting trusted digital trade, supporting secure data flows, and creating a more predictable business environment for companies expanding internationally.

The partnership is also intended to encourage innovation by enabling businesses to adopt new digital technologies and expand access to international markets.

Strengthening Kenya’s Digital Economy

For Kenya, the negotiations represent another step in advancing its ambition to become a leading digital economy in Africa. The country has experienced rapid growth in mobile payments, online retail, financial technology, and digital entrepreneurship over the past decade.

A digital trade agreement with the UK could help Kenyan businesses access new export opportunities while attracting foreign investment into technology infrastructure, digital services, and innovation ecosystems.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up a significant share of Kenya’s economy, are also expected to benefit from simplified digital trade processes and improved market access.

Expanding Opportunities for UK Businesses

For the United Kingdom, the agreement supports its broader strategy of deepening trade relationships with high-growth economies following Brexit. By strengthening digital cooperation with Kenya, British companies could gain greater access to one of Africa’s fastest-growing technology markets.

The agreement is expected to create new opportunities for businesses operating in sectors including cloud computing, financial technology, cybersecurity, digital logistics, artificial intelligence, and professional digital services.

Building on Existing Trade Relations

The negotiations complement the existing trade partnership between the UK and Kenya while shifting greater attention toward the digital economy. As global commerce increasingly moves online, both governments are seeking to establish trade rules that reflect modern business practices and support long-term economic growth.

If concluded, the agreement could become one of Africa’s most significant bilateral digital trade partnerships, serving as a model for future digital economy agreements between developed and emerging markets.

Officials from both countries will continue discussions over the coming months as they work toward a comprehensive framework that promotes innovation, enhances digital connectivity, and supports sustainable growth in cross-border e-commerce and technology investment.

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Dubai Chambers China Forum 2026 to Accelerate Digital Economy and Trade Growth

Dubai Chambers has announced that the next edition of the Dubai Business Forum – China will take place in Shenzhen on October 14, 2026, aiming to strengthen trade, investment, and innovation ties between Dubai and China. The event will be held under the theme “Momentum at Scale: Accelerating Shared Success.”

Organized by Dubai Chambers, the forum is expected to bring together senior business leaders, investors, technology firms, policymakers, and multinational companies from both markets to explore opportunities across the digital economy, logistics, advanced manufacturing, venture capital, and emerging technologies.

How Dubai Chambers Is Expanding UAE-China Digital Economy Partnerships

Dubai Chambers stated that the forum is designed to create new channels for cross-border collaboration while positioning Dubai as a strategic global hub for Chinese companies seeking international expansion. Officials highlighted that the initiative aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double Dubai’s economy and strengthen its position among the world’s top global business cities.

According to Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, the event will focus on “high-impact opportunities” in sectors including the digital economy and emerging technologies.

Shenzhen was selected as the host city due to its global reputation in technology, innovation, and advanced manufacturing. Located in China’s Greater Bay Area, the city has become a major center for digital transformation, smart mobility, logistics, and venture capital development.

The upcoming edition marks the fifth international Dubai Business Forum and the second one hosted in China. Previous editions were held in cities including Beijing, London, Hamburg, and New York. The Beijing edition in 2024 attracted more than 800 business leaders and investors.

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Global Digital Trade at Risk as WTO E-Commerce Moratorium Collapses After 28 Years

The future of global digital trade has become more uncertain after World Trade Organization members failed to extend the long-standing moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions. The breakdown came after four days of talks in Yaounde, Cameroon, ended without consensus, marking the first time in 28 years that the measure has expired.

Why the WTO E-Commerce Moratorium Matters for Global Trade

The WTO e-commerce moratorium has long prevented governments from imposing customs duties on digital products and transmissions such as software downloads, streaming services and other cross-border digital content. Its expiry now raises new questions for businesses operating in international e-commerce, especially as governments rethink how digital trade should be taxed and regulated.

According to the report, Brazil and Turkey blocked the proposal to extend the moratorium, despite efforts to bridge differences through both temporary and permanent renewal options. Several developing countries have argued that keeping the moratorium in place limits their ability to generate tax revenue from the growing digital economy.

Shift Toward Fragmented Digital Trade Rules

The United States responded by signalling that it may increasingly pursue digital trade arrangements outside the WTO framework. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said Washington would work with like-minded partners if the moratorium is not restored, adding that the US already has agreements with dozens of countries not to impose tariffs on American digital transmissions.

The failed talks also add to wider concerns about the WTO’s role in shaping modern trade policy. Analysts said the outcome reflects growing strain on the multilateral system, while industry voices warned that digital trade negotiations are becoming more politicised. At the same time, 66 WTO members agreed to move ahead with a baseline framework for digital trade rules, signalling that smaller plurilateral deals may become more common.

That shift could create new complications for global commerce. Experts warned that overlapping side agreements may lead to a fragmented trade environment, making compliance harder for businesses operating across multiple markets. For e-commerce players, the absence of a unified global approach could increase uncertainty around tariffs, digital market access and future cross-border trade rules.

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said discussions would continue in Geneva, leaving the door open for a possible reinstatement of the moratorium. Still, the latest breakdown highlights a deeper divide between developed and developing economies over how digital trade should evolve and who should benefit from its growth.

For the global e-commerce sector, the message is clear: digital trade policy is entering a more fragmented and politically sensitive phase, and the WTO e-commerce moratorium may no longer be treated as a guaranteed pillar of the system.

Source: Reuters via Business Standard.

3 Signals Show China’s Trade Momentum Strengthening as Global Markets Shift

China is reinforcing its position in global trade as officials highlight steady progress in foreign trade performance and continued efforts to strengthen economic resilience.

At a recent briefing by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), authorities emphasized that China’s trade activity remains stable, supported by strong industrial capacity and ongoing policy measures aimed at improving trade quality and structure.

The update reflects a broader strategy focused not only on maintaining trade volumes but also on enhancing value creation and long-term sustainability.

Trade Structure Shifts Toward Higher Value

China is increasingly prioritizing the quality of its trade over sheer volume. Officials highlighted improvements in the composition of exports, with a growing share of high-value and technology-driven products.

This transition signals a move toward more advanced manufacturing and innovation-led trade. At the same time, efforts are underway to promote more balanced import and export dynamics while strengthening global supply chain stability.

Cross-Border E-Commerce Remains a Key Driver

Cross-border e-commerce continues to play a central role in China’s trade strategy. Digital platforms and streamlined logistics systems are enabling businesses to access global markets more efficiently.

Authorities have emphasized ongoing improvements in trade facilitation, including customs processes and digital infrastructure, to support faster and more reliable international transactions.

As global demand for online commerce grows, China is further integrating digital trade into its broader economic framework.

What This Means for Global Markets

China’s latest signals point to a more structured and resilient global trade environment. While geopolitical and economic pressures remain, the country’s focus on innovation, diversification and digitalization is shaping the next phase of international commerce.

As previously highlighted in WORLDEF’s coverage of global trade trends, the future of cross-border trade is increasingly defined by efficiency, data-driven systems and strategic expansion.

China’s direction reflects this shift. Trade is no longer driven by scale alone, but by the ability to adapt to a more complex and competitive global landscape.

Source: SCIO

Lille in 2026 Selected to Host New EU Customs Authority as Trade Pressures Rise

The European Union has selected the French city of Lille as the headquarters of its new Customs Authority, marking a major step in the bloc’s efforts to modernise its trade and customs systems.

The decision follows a competitive bidding process involving several European cities, including Rome, Warsaw, The Hague and Bucharest. In the final round, Lille secured the position, reinforcing France’s central role in shaping the future of EU customs operations.

The new authority is expected to be established in 2026 and could become fully operational by 2028, although timelines remain subject to final negotiations.

A Central Hub for EU Customs Reform

The creation of the EU Customs Authority is part of a broader overhaul of the EU customs framework. The reform aims to address growing challenges linked to rising trade volumes, fragmented national systems and the rapid expansion of e-commerce.

In particular, the surge in low-value shipments and cross-border online trade has placed increasing pressure on existing customs infrastructure. The new authority is expected to play a key role in improving coordination, strengthening enforcement and supporting a more unified approach across member states.

Beyond enforcement, the authority will also contribute to the development of a more digital and data-driven customs system, aligning with the EU’s wider strategy to modernise trade operations.

Why Lille Was Selected

Lille’s selection reflects both strategic and operational advantages. Located at a key crossroads of European trade routes, the city offers strong logistics connectivity and proximity to major markets, including the UK and Northern Europe.

France also highlighted its experience in managing large trade flows and its established customs infrastructure as part of its bid. The country remains one of the EU’s primary entry points for goods, handling a significant share of incoming parcels.

In addition, Lille presented a ready-to-use infrastructure plan and committed to supporting operational costs, strengthening its position in the final decision process.

What This Means for E-Commerce and Trade

The establishment of the EU Customs Authority comes at a time when global trade is becoming increasingly complex. Geopolitical tensions, shifting tariffs and the continued rise of e-commerce are forcing governments to rethink how goods are monitored and regulated.

For e-commerce businesses, the move signals a shift toward more structured and centralised customs processes. Combined with upcoming regulatory changes such as the removal of de minimis thresholds, the EU is moving toward tighter control over cross-border flows.

As previously highlighted in WORLDEF’s coverage of customs and e-commerce trends, the future of cross-border trade will be defined less by speed alone and more by compliance, data accuracy and operational resilience.

The decision to base the authority in Lille underlines the EU’s intention to build a more integrated and technologically advanced customs system. For businesses operating across borders, this marks another step toward a more regulated, but also more predictable, trade environment.

Source: Euronews