A new tool for assessing the global state of play in the digitalization of trade procedures
About
The Trade Digitalization Index (TDI) is a joint initiative of five United Nations Regional Commissions (UNRCs),
including ECA, ECE, ECLAC, ESCAP and ESCWA. The TDI underscores the significance of trade digitalization in enhancing
and streamlining trade procedures, offering multiple benefits such as lowering compliance costs, facilitating faster
movement of goods, and fostering opportunities for SMEs in cross-border trade.
In this context, the Trade Digitalization Index (TDI) is a novel measure assessing global progress in digitalizing trade
procedures, based on data from the UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation. It offers governments
a means to assess their progress, pinpoint weaknesses, and facilitate international organizations in identifying areas
requiring additional support.
Highlight: Substantial variations exist in trade digitalization rates between regions emphasizing the necessity for
targeted strategies tailored to the unique needs of specific regions and economies.
Highlight: Countries with special needs (LLDCs, LDCs, SIDS) share similar average trade digitalization rates, below the
global average of 59%, placing these countries at a disadvantage in digitalization efforts and integration for
cross-border trade.
Highlight: Significant disparities exist between the most and least implemented trade digitalization measures, and
challenges persist in fully implementing cross-border paperless trade measures.
Highlight: Global digitalization rates are on the rise il all regions studied between 2021-2023 with an encouraging
increase of 8 percentage points during this period for the common countries participating in both surveys.