Through model contracts, codes of conduct and trustmark schemes, a framework of self-regulation is emerging, but global coverage has not yet been achieved. We must support a natural evolution of rules as they are required. As they embrace electronic commerce, companies realize that, whatever power they once held over customers, it is now being given away. Internet users will increasingly be able to make fully-informed choices and act upon them instantly. Before drawing attention to another reason for employing caution, I must commend the OECD for having included countries from outside its membership in this conference.
Electronic commerce is borderless by definition.
The OECD and its member states can play an extremely valuable role by leading through example and by providing solid economic evidence of why e-commerce requires enabling policies. But we must continue to involve individual countries in all stages of development. Our experience in ICC is that, given an opportunity, countries from outside the OECD region bring crucial experience and cultural parameters to this debate that would not otherwise be taken into account. Perhaps the greatest potential for an improvement in living standards via electronic commerce lies in these countries. However, for this potential to be realized we need to provide factual evidence of the need for pro-competitive policies, a favourable investment climate and business leadership.