A joint report by the IDB, WTO and World Bank positions digital trade as a growth engine for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Regional exports of digitally delivered services have increased fivefold in two decades, rising from US$18.5 billion in 2005 to US$87.7 billion in 2024. The report highlights that digital platforms are lowering barriers to international market access and enabling small businesses, entrepreneurs and women-led firms to reach customers worldwide. Even so, the region captured only 2% of global exports of digitally delivered services in 2024, and just 8.4% of those exports stayed within the region in 2023.

Significant challenges remain: gaps in digital infrastructure and connectivity, fragmented regulations, limited payment system interoperability, customs barriers and digital skills shortages. The report calls for action in eight key areas, including simplifying trade procedures, promoting digital exports, strengthening the digital capabilities of firms and workers, and expanding access to finance.