MC14: deep concern over e-commerce moratorium deadlock
News
30 Mar 2026
Trade, Customs and trade facilitation

The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU (AmCham EU) is deeply concerned by World Trade Organization members’ failure to reach agreement on the moratorium on E-Commerce at the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Cameroon. The absence of an agreement undermines legal certainty for businesses and consumers worldwide. This deadlock further underscores the need for significant WTO reform.

Since its introduction, the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions has played a vital role in enabling the global digital economy by ensuring the smooth cross-border exchange of digital goods and services. In an increasingly digitalised global economy, predictability remains essential for companies of all sizes operating across borders.

WTO members must now renew efforts to re-instate the moratorium at the next General Council meeting as a matter of priority. Delivering such an outcome would strengthen the multilateral trading system and better reflect the realities of modern trade.

Related items

News
3 Sep 2026

Engaging with the Mexican Ambassador on stronger trade ties

On Wednesday, 2 September 2026, Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU met with Esteban Moctezuma Barragán, Mexican Ambassador to the European Union, Belgium and Luxembourg, for an introductory meeting to exchange views on the transatlantic business relationship. Discussions focused on opportunities to deepen EU–Mexico economic ties following the signature of the Modernised Global Agreement and interim trade agreement earlier this year. AmCham EU looks forward to continued engagement with Ambassador Moctezuma and to supporting closer EU–Mexico economic cooperation.

Read more about Engaging with the Mexican Ambassador on stronger trade ties
News
19 Jun 2026

Stressing the importance of open trade in Strasbourg

From Tuesday, 16 to Wednesday, 17 June, AmCham EU travelled to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France for a series of meetings on EU trade and external affairs policy developments. The delegation engaged with Members of the European Parliament and political group advisers to share business perspectives on the future of the EU-US relationship. Discussions focused on the need to reset transatlantic trade and investment ties, strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and preserve open, rules-based markets. Members also highlighted the importance of avoiding tariffs, reducing regulatory complexity, deepening cooperation on economic security, critical supply chains and digital policy as well as ensuring that resilience measures remain proportionate, predictable and open to trusted partners.

Read more about Stressing the importance of open trade in Strasbourg
News
11 Jun 2026

Highlighting the Single Market’s role in Europe’s competitiveness

On Tuesday, 10 June, Thibaut L’Ortye spoke at EUROPEN’s panel on Global Partnerships and the EU Single Market. The discussion focused on how Europe can strengthen its competitiveness and attractiveness as an investment destination. Mr L’Ortye underlined the importance of external partnerships to support supply chains, particularly in areas such as critical minerals and AI, as well as secondary raw materials. He also highlighted the need for the EU to remain open to international investors while pursuing its economic security objectives.

Industry
Trade
Read more
Read more about Highlighting the Single Market’s role in Europe’s competitiveness