Author: Mahirah Mahusin / Topic: Digital Economy

Author:: Mahirah Mahusin and Hilmy Prilliadi
Publication Date:: 12-2024
Content Type:: Policy Brief
Institution:: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA)
Abstract:: ASEAN’s rapidly growing digital economy underscores the urgent need to safeguard online consumers. As internet and e-commerce usage soar, robust consumer protection mechanisms are essential to address the risks inherent in digital transactions. This Policy Brief explores the current state of online consumer protection in ASEAN, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive legal and policy frameworks that span all stages of online transactions. Drawing on the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan on Consumer Protection and existing legislative measures, it identifies significant gaps in coverage and enforcement. The analysis emphasises the importance of pre-contractual information duties in fostering transparency and consumer trust. Key policy recommendations include the establishment of minimum protection standards for digital platforms, the development of thorough pre-contractual regulations, and the creation of an interoperable ASEAN Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) network. These measures aim to enhance consumer confidence, ensure a secure digital marketplace, and align ASEAN’s practices with international standards.
Topic:: Digital Economy, ASEAN, E-Commerce, Digital Marketplace, and Consumer Protection
Political Geography:: Asia

Author:: Mahirah Mahusin and Hilmy Prilliadi
Publication Date:: 11-2024
Content Type:: Policy Brief
Institution:: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA)
Abstract:: As ASEAN’s digital economy continues to expand, the region faces escalating cybersecurity risks with significant potential costs. This policy brief examines ASEAN’s current cybersecurity landscape, underscoring the need for enhanced cooperation and comprehensive strategies to address the rising threat of cyberattacks. The economic impact of cyberattacks in ASEAN is already substantial, affecting both public and private sectors. This brief reviews existing efforts such as the ASEAN Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy 2021–2025 and the ASEAN Regional Computer Emergency Response Team (ASEAN CERT), recommending the establishment of a shared cybersecurity taxonomy, capacity-building initiatives, and legal framework updates to bolster cybersecurity. Key policy recommendations encourage robust multi-stakeholder collaboration at national and regional levels.
Topic:: Regional Cooperation, Cybersecurity, Regulation, Digital Economy, and ASEAN
Political Geography:: Asia

Author:: Mahirah Mahusin and Hilmy Prilliadi
Publication Date:: 11-2024
Content Type:: Policy Brief
Institution:: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA)
Abstract:: ASEAN’s digital economy is growing rapidly, offering both significant opportunities and challenges. Ensuring a competitive digital market is essential for fostering innovation, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality and choice for consumers and businesses, particularly MSMEs. This policy brief assesses the current digital market competition landscape in ASEAN, emphasising the need for robust competition policies to mitigate anti-competitive behaviours and establish a level playing field. It discusses key initiatives like the ASEAN Competition Action Plan (ACAP) 2025 and the ASEAN Guidelines for Sharing Merger Cases, while examining the complexities of digital markets, including the influence of dominant platforms, algorithmic impacts, and data privacy considerations. Policy recommendations focus on aligning provisions in the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) with regional standards and international best practices, enhancing regulatory capabilities, fostering regional cooperation, and promoting consumer education and protection.
Topic:: Digital Economy, Innovation, ASEAN, Economic Competition, and Digital Marketplace
Political Geography:: Asia

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