Message from Overall Chair
While the overall global economy continues its uneven improvement, safe and reliable e-commerce continues its growth as a foundation for all types of businesses and governments. That growth is occurring in an environment where competitive and political dynamics are constantly changing. As companies around the world develop new business models and provide new products and services, the policies and initiatives that affect how we carry out business must create an environment that protects not only industries and our customers, but also the world within which we live.
The Global Business Dialogue on e-Society (GBDe) is a worldwide, CEO-led business initiative, established for the purpose of shaping global policy related to e-commerce. We submit annual policy recommendations to governments, enterprises, and related organizations around the globe. In doing so, we help foster a business environment where the e-commerce industry can grow, while making positive contributions to the society.
We face a number of issues that limit participation in e-commerce today by citizens and enterprises. IT security and data privacy issues, with risks both real and perceived, hamper the growth of the e-commerce industry by reducing consumer confidence. Immature global models for cross-border transactions constrain much activity to within national borders. Social issues such as economic disparity and the digital divide are preventing many global citizens from participating in the online world. At the same time, a focus on green business practices and eco-friendly strategies lends support to increased use of e-commerce.
I strongly believe that the e-commerce industry has a key role to play in solving some of these issues and bringing about sustainable economic growth for the next generation.
GBDe gives you the opportunity to be actively involved in the e-commerce industry’s decision making process at a global level. I encourage you to join us as we continue to find solutions to the policy issues that affect e-commerce all over the world. Your cooperation will make GBDe more powerful and influential to contribute to the sustained growth of global business.
Mr. Michael Rehkopf
GBDe Overall Chair 2011
Partner & Director North Asia
TPI
