DIGITAL

Electronic commerce. At the end of August, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (CEPAL) published a report on access to digital technologies to combat the effects of COVID-19. The report urges countries of the region to improve online shopping channels given the increase in electronic commerce during the pandemic and to strengthen the security of users’ personal data. It is expected that States will promote legislative and executive initiatives in accordance with the recommendations of CEPAL in the coming months. 

The regional body considers that one of the main future consequences of the pandemic is a sustained increase in e-commerce. There will be an increased demand for online shopping, banking, insurance services, and entertainment. For this reason, CEPAL urges the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean to improve the shopping experience (seamless experience) and strengthen the security of personal data. 

In relation to the last points, the report recommends developing mechanisms to avoid the unauthorized collection and the improper use of personal information. Another important aspect is the development of regulatory frameworks that define what use companies can give the data. 

Next steps

At the end of August, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (CEPAL) published a report on access to digital technologies to combat the effects of COVID-19. The report urges countries of the region to improve online shopping channels given the increase in electronic commerce during the pandemic and to strengthen the security of users’ personal data. It is expected that States will promote legislative and executive initiatives in accordance with the recommendations of CEPAL in the coming months.