THE ROLE OF THE WTO DSB IN MODERNIZING WTO LAW ON E-COMMERCE

Abstract

Laws must be modernized in accordance with shifting market conditions and the modernization of trading patterns. The regulation of e-commerce, however, is still not provided for in the WTO legal system, and current debate suggests that no substantial agreements will be reached in the near future. As a result, e-commerce is neither regulated nor left to self-regulation because of the different standards applied across borders. This article outlines the applicability of the existing WTO law that regulates the legal relations of e-commerce. The findings of this research are relevant not only for meeting existing market characteristics, but also for predicting possible scenarios in case of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU without an agreement as WTO rules, which do not exist in e-commerce, will apply to international trade relations with the UK.