Latin America and the Regulation of Internet and Digital Trade

In this chapter, Rodrigo Polanco argues that Latin American contributions to the internet have not been sufficiently acknowledged. He describes how the countries of the region have played an active role in regulating the web, with particular emphasis on one of its more essential uses—digital trade. Latin American countries have made a distinct contribution to internet regulations, advancing principles like open access and net neutrality. In addition, they have pioneered the inclusion of e-commerce and data flow provisions in preferential trade agreements (PTAs). The chapter closes by highlighting potential conflicts between these countries’ domestic regulations and international commitments concerning the internet and digital trade.