In a policy statement, ICC “recommends that all information and communication technology products enjoy duty-free treatment according to the broadest possible definition that may include, but not be limited to, the OECD definition, which states: ICT goods are those that are either intended to fulfill the function of information processing and communication by electronic means, including transmission and display, or which use electronic processing to detect, measure and/or record physical phenomena, or to control a physical process.”

ICC has also urged ITA signatories to accelerate talks on the expansion of the ITA’s product coverage. “Given the key role the IT sector plays in driving global growth and the reality of our economic uncertainty, such talks should start immediately. Expansion of the ITA will play a very important role in stimulating the world economy. ICC also recognizes the unique characteristics of ITA as a stand-alone WTO agreement, enabled by the strong support from the global IT/ICT industry. These characteristics should be safeguarded in any expansion negotiation of the ITA,” it adds.