PNG APEC member commitment – Development of interoperable digital identity systems and corporate e-KYC approaches in APEC
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is one of the 21 members of APEC since 1993. Despite member economies not required to be bound by commitment or treaties, it is vital for member economies to cooperate in implementing common best practices, framework and policies. Cooperation creates and enables interoperational systems for trade between member economics and the global community at large.
One of the key development agenda being discussed and followed up in workshops and consultations since PNG played host to the APEC meeting in 2018, is to create interoperable digital connectivity to advance free trade for Asia-Pacific prosperity.
In March of 2022, The APEC Policy Unit released the APEC connectivity blueprint – Enhancing Implementation of APEC Connectivity Blueprint in the Digital Era: Digital Connectivity for Stronger Recovery. The blueprint highlights key trends, best practices and eight case studies from four (4) member economies on policy experiences and identifying gaps in digital connectivity. One of the important topics covered is digital identification, where Australia’s Digital Identity System was used as a case study.
It is stated that a possible success factor in developing an integrated digital ID system is to adopt people-centered design in assuring user consent , control and oversight of personal data is considered to improve trust and accountability.
Drawing from the case studies and research, the YuTru digital identity trust system is designed to ensure users privacy and protection and their information is secured and under their control. YuTru is built in accordance with the APEC Connectivity Blueprint and is a key enabler for PNG’s economic growth and global participation in trade.