Maroc - TAIWANTODAY.TW - Top News - 01/Dec 00:00

Taiwan, Japan ink pact on digital trade cooperation

Taiwan and Japan signed a digital trade cooperation agreement Dec. 4 in Taipei City, highlighting government commitment to create a free, open and safe digital trade environment and promote closer cooperation for consumers and businesses.   Inked by Su Jia-chyuan, chair of the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association, and Shuzo Sumi, chair of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, the pact was based on the Taiwan-Japan Arrangement for Mutual Cooperation on Electronic Commerce in 2013. The current agreement includes more comprehensive regulations spanning duty-free cross-border electronic transmission, transnational data transmission, paperless trade, personal data and privacy protection, network security and online consumer protection.   According to the Executive Yuan, the agreement emphasizes protecting companies’ source codes and encrypted information to enable them to create secure businesses. The mutual recognition of electronic signatures further validifies electronic documents for enterprises. This simplifies customs clearance, reducing costs and shortening times for import and export.   In further protection for online consumers, in the event of cross-border online disputes, Taiwan authorities will cooperate with Japanese counterparts to combat online fraud and ask for assistance, the Executive Yuan stated.   Japan is Taiwan’s fourth largest export market for and seventh largest importer of digital transmission services, as well as the sixth largest partner in telecommunications, computers and information services, according to the EY. Yang Jen-ni, EY Office of Trade Negotiations trade representative, said that the agreement facilitates deepened cooperation in technology and trade, establishes more reliable supply chains and expands exchanges in artificial intelligence and digital trade that will enhance domestic enterprises’ competitiveness. (YCH-E)   Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw