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APEC Privacy Framework

  

Issued by the APEC Electronic Commerce Steering Group

APEC Privacy Framework

What is the APEC Privacy Framework?
Information flows are vital to conducting business in a global economy. The APEC Privacy Framework promotes a flexible approach to information privacy protection for APEC Member Economies, while avoiding the creation of unnecessary barriers to information flows.

The APEC Privacy Framework is a practical policy approach to enable accountability in the flow of data while preventing impediments to trade. It provides technical assistance to those APEC economies that have not addressed privacy from a regulatory or policy perspective.

The Framework will enable regional data transfers to the benefit of consumers, businesses and governments.
The Framework provides clear guidance and direction to businesses in APEC Member Economies on common privacy issues and outlines the impact of these issues on the various legitimate business models. The Framework does this by outlining reasonable expectations of the modern consumer on how their privacy interests should be protected.

The nine principles of the APEC Privacy Framework are:
  • Preventing harm
  • Integrity of Personal Information
  • Notice
  • Security Safeguards
  • Collection Limitations
  • Access and Correction
  • Uses of Personal Information
  • Accountability
  • Choice

Why is it important?
Data is the digital currency that fuels the growth in many of today's economies. This Framework will facilitate responsible information flows, which creates an essential basis for increased trade and e-commerce to flourish. It enables government, business and societal benefits by developing domestic markets, improving efficiencies and economic growth, and attracting foreign investment, which also leads to developing local industry.

How does it work?
The Framework focuses on both domestic and international implementation of privacy standards for APEC Member Economies. It explores new ways of information sharing and cooperation across agencies and authorities to enable transfers of personal information across borders. The Framework also provides specific examples of privacy situations and focuses its attention on practical and consistent information privacy protection within this context. The Framework balances privacy with all relevant interests while according due recognition to issues of cultural and economic diversity that exists within the APEC Region.

For further information Contact:

Carolyn Williams on E-mail: cdw@apec.org

Anita Douglas on 010 3964 7035 (Cellular) or E-mail: ad@apec.org