The Digital Revolution

Technological innovations have helped accelerate trade growth by increasing access to trade finance, facilitating entry to new markets, and boosting productivity. The emergence of central bank digital currencies, data analytics and distributed ledger technologies could transform the global trade environment. 

However, despite rapid growth, barriers to digitally enabled services – which form the backbone of digital trade transactions – are growing, alongside rising international tensions around technology. 

A coordinated approach to tackle these barriers and political tensions will be key to ensure ongoing global trade growth. 

Key themes we are exploring

• Tech as a driver of growth
  Innovative technologies have the capacity to accelerate trade growth through increased market access. Our research explores key tech trends and their impact on trade flows.
• Asia’s tech landscape
  We assess comparative adoption of innovative technologies across Asia and the Middle East, and the regulatory, economic, and policy factors driving it.
• The political economy of tech
  From semiconductor value chains to the use of data, technology is emerging as an expanding source of political tension. We focus on solutions to overcoming the political challenges of technologies and their use.
• The evolving role of data
  The usage of data is key in facilitating trade, promoting transparency and interoperability. Yet it is an increasingly contentious commodity. Our research looks at the challenges in the cross-border usage of data.
• Digital currencies
  Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) will become increasingly important in monetary policy, finance, and trade. Our research explores the progress and potential impact of CBDCs.

For more information about Asia House research in these areas, please contact Phyllis Papadavid, Head of Research and Advisory: phyllis.papadavid@asiahouse.co.uk

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