Recommendations from the APEC 2000 SME e-Commerce Workshop
- Access to information Infrastructure
- Provide an environment that fosters/encourages investment in e- Business by government and private enterprise.
- Assist in lowering Internet access costs along with the improvement of quality of service for SMEs.
- Support an information infrastructure as a resource for SMEs through the establishment of centres for expertise.
- Human Resources Development
- Respond to the existing "Human Resource Deficit" impeding development of the knowledge-based Economy and recognize the need for new tools and skills.
- APEC Government give priority to the development of a national and regional e-commerce human resource Master Plan with specific action items and time frames.
- Emphasize public/private sector cooperation, which is of critical importance to HR development in the Knowledge-based Economy.
- Trust and Regulatory Environment
- Encourage self-regulation whenever possible, but include minimum standards for trust in the marketplace.
Modify and enhance policies and laws that will foster a supportive environment for e- Business and seek compatibility across jurisdictions. - Encourage SME participation in an active dialogue with governments and suppliers on issues including:
Security, Consumer Protection, Liability, Interoperability, Payment Mechanisms. - Government and Business Relationship
- Develop e- Government to optimise services to SMEs; share information between governments to support best practices adoption; and, proactively share information with SMEs on e-Government initiatives
- Develop one-stop e-Commerce Information Centres that provide the information Centres that provide the information needed by SMEs
- Undertake a regular and open assessment of e-Commerce readiness as part of this process