Context:
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is one of the fastest growing economic regions in the world with the digital economy playing a particularly important role.
However, for entrepreneurs and consumers to benefit from regional and transnational e-commerce and the circular economy, regulations and support systems need to be in place. The objective is to promote the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and strengthen consumer protection.
However, in several countries, the legal provisions are still not fully developed or regionally coordinated to keep pace with the rapid developments in e-commerce and the circular economy. There is an urgent need for effective regulations governing competition and consumer protection under the umbrella of fair business practices.
Objective:
Entrepreneurs in ASEAN enhance their competitiveness in e-commerce and the circular economy by adopting fair business practices and using demand-driven services.
Approach:
The project pursues a three-tiered approach:
- In regional committees, it advises ASEAN Member States on developing guidelines for regulations on fair business practices.
- In the countries, it advises private and public stakeholders on implementing regulations on fair business practices.
- It supports the regional platform ASEAN Access in expanding its offer of demand-driven services, training and information events, for example. This makes it easier for entrepreneurs to gain access to the e-commerce and circular economy market.