Growth in global e-commerce is a major aspect of economic digitalization and a powerful driver of innovation in business-to-business and consumer markets, global value chains and international trade overall. Harnessing e-commerce is therefore crucial for growth, competitiveness  and socio-economic development.  

At the request of the Government of Botswana, UNCTAD has just completed an ICT Policy Review and e-Commerce Strategy, in cooperation with the Ministry for Investment, Trade and Industry.  The national e-commerce strategy aims to leverage Botswana’s full potential for e-commerce, to boost economic growth and socio-economic gains, diversify the economy, raise Botswana’s competitiveness in the global economy, and support its recovery from the pandemic crisis.  It also aims to support Botswana in growing its digital economy and to achieve the implementation of its Sustainable Development Goals Vision 2030.  The production of the Policy Review and e-Commerce Strategy was supported by the SADC Trade Related Facility (TRF Fund) funded by the European Union.

The  ICT Policy Review and e-Commerce Strategy of Botswana will be launched on 21 October 2001 at a virtual event with the participation of H.E. Mr. Mmusi Kgafela, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry.  The presentation will be followed by an interactive discussion with multiple national and international stakeholders. 

In addition to Botswana national stakeholders, the strategy launch event is open to country delegates and the international community. 

Watch the event proceedings here