The E-Commerce and Information and Communications Technologies Working Group

The E-Commerce and Information and Communications Technologies Working Group is tasked with maximizing online business and consumer confidence by adopting a framework of common principles for e-commerce, as well as stimulating and accelerating cross-border technology trade. Canadian private sector organizations have been consulted on the work of the group; facilitating e-business throughout the North America continues to be a priority for it.

Some of the major projects being worked on by the E-Commerce and Information and Communications Technologies Working Group include:

• The Framework of Common Principles for Electronic Commerce was signed by all three countries in June 2005. This framework establishes an action plan for trilateral cooperation to foster trans-border electronic commerce and trade conducted online. Various projects are being developed under it.
• The United States and Canada have developed a new process to expedite the negotiation and adoption of cross-border frequency-sharing arrangements. This work ensures that rapidly evolving wireless services and technologies continue to be deployed in a timely manner in border regions.
• Canada, the U.S. and Mexico have been working to implement a mutual recognition agreement on conformity assessment for telecommunications equipment. This will help promote the trade of telecommunications equipment among the countries.