U.S. Launches Digital Attache Program to Address e-Commerce Barriers and Growth

The U.S. Department of Commerce, through the Commercial Service arm of the International Trade Administration, has launched a new initiative that establishes an expert network of “digital attaches” in six to eight key markets, including ASEAN, Brazil, China, Japan, India, and the European Union. This initiative will enhance efforts to advance commercial diplomacy, drive policy advocacy on technology issues, ensure linkages between trade policy and trade promotion efforts, and provide front-line assistance for U.S. small and medium enterprises to take advantage of the robust e-commerce channels.

"Digital trade generates over $8 trillion a year to the global economy and the ability to transfer data is directly responsible for $2.8 trillion"

Adam Schlosser, Senior Director and Policy Counsel, Center for Global Regulatory Cooperation, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

The Digital Attache program is part of the Department of Commerce’s comprehensive effort under Secretary’s Pritzker to address 21st century trade barriers and help the digital economy thrive. In 2014 the United States exported roughly $400 billion in digitally-deliverable services, accounting for more than half of U.S. services exports and about one-sixth of all U.S. goods and services exports.

“America’s economic growth and competitiveness depend on our capacity to embrace digitization in the economy,” said Secretary Pritzker.

Digital trade officers’ responsibilities will include: assisting U.S. companies increase exports through global E-commerce channels, accessing the global online marketplace, and navigating digital policy and regulatory issues in foreign market. Training for attaches will be coordinated through ITA, with assistance from agencies and bureaus across the Commerce Department.

Digital Attache Fact Sheet (via Commerce.gov)