Digital trade has been a fundamental pillar of the WTO's action agenda since its creation. While it is true that the initial focus was solely on international trade in technological products (computers, telecommunications equipment, semiconductors, software, scientific instruments, etc. and a large part of their components and accessories), in 1998 a Declaration was adopted to establish a Work Program on the subject which, in January 2019, crystallized into a Declaration to undertake negotiations on aspects of electronic commerce, which is now underway.

It recognizes and takes into account the unique opportunities and challenges that new technologies give rise to, both for the Organization's Members and for businesses of all sizes, especially micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as for the empowerment of women. The EU already incorporates specific chapters on e-commerce in its trade agreements with third countries.

In this area, the transfer of data, in particular personal data, and consumer protection, together with intellectual property (also linked to the field of foreign investment), are of significant importance.

The aim is to study the existing situation on these issues, both in the agreements already negotiated by the European Union and in the agreement currently under negotiation at the WTO. It should not be forgotten that some EU policies (in particular those relating to data protection) are accused of being protectionist and contrary to existing international commitments both within the framework of the WTO (in particular GATS) and the EU's bilateral free trade agreements.