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(June/July 2001)

Member State: ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

Basic Data:
Population: 64362 (1996)
Area: 440 Sq.Km
GDP: EC$ 1472.6mn (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$ 19262 (1993)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a)  Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b)  Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c)  Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita /average wage) (d)  Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e)   Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Fairly good and widespread. Govt. has monopoly over local network and Cable & Wireless over international. 2 ISPs presently offering Internet access. Dial up 56K available at EC$99 monthly (plus local phone call charge) against an average wage of around EC$2500. T-196 lease is available at EC$28000. Not an issue. Free Trade Zone established.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	The PMs office pushing for it but not yet a national initiative. Draft ready for approval. Yes, the Information Technology Centre. Though there are some websites of government and re-engineering initiatives in some depts. E-Government progress is slow. Not available. Very little formal consultation.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infra-structures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Not available. Not available. Planned but not yet in place. Patents and Trademark laws need updating. Not available for Internet..
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human   Capital (a)   Availability of e-professional for e-business (b)   Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c)   Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e)  Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	A growing shortage. Could be easily trained. Basic level only with the Technology Institute beginning to offer certified training. Quite low. Not yet.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless E-Commerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Quite low. Does not exist. Not available. Fairly good.   Investment encouraged.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO, FTAA etc. (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Depending on RNM. Expect CARICOM to assist.

Member State: BARBADOS

Basic Data:
Population: 264,600 (1996)
Area: 430 Sq Km
GDP: EC$ 5383.3 (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$ 17,756 (1996)
 

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Cable & Wireless (Bartel) is the monopoly telecom provider. Fibre ring round island and alternative connectivity with satellite and undersea cable. Fairly high PC penetration, 27,600 Internet connections and several Internet kiosks. Negotiations for liberalising monopoly still on-going but expected opening of domestic market soon. Presently 6 ISPs - all using Cable & Wireless gateway. Internet prices falling and 56K unlimited now at B$87 (US 44). (Against avg. wage of B$ 3000-4000 p.m.). Lease 64K at B$1660, 128K at B$3040 and T-1 at B$24,760(plus 1600 installation). Fairly stable but cost an issue. Not at the moment but planned.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Important but not a 'national' priority. Policy and strategy under formulation Ministry of Commerce, as per Cabinet decision. IT in government under implementation not e-Government initiatives as yet. Customs has ASYCUDA and a scheme for duty free shops that itself helps pay for Customs computerisation. EDI in trade infrastructure not there. Consultation more through surveys.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infra-structures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	An Electronic Transactions Act, 2001 has been promulgated. Computer Misuse Bill also planned. The above Act provides for a certification authority which is still to come about. Capacity building  to address in cyber crimes required. Good. A draft that addresses Barbadian to Barbadian Internet transactions not trans-border, under consideration.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	There is a felt shortage on account of which the EduTech programme initiated. Fairly high. Full computerisation of school network planned. Presently IT teaching in schools and Community college limited though high demand. UWI does produce some 150 computer science graduates. Rising fast. There is conscious attempt to do so.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless ECommerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	IT sector is growing and in local industry.  IT usage is growing too. Mostly though use only Internet not integrated IT in their businesses. Not yet but banks have been asked to prepare for it. No. Very open and perceptibly fair business environment. Specific policy exists. Also 16 agencies  involved in Investment are being put online to facilitate investors.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/FTAA (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Depend on RNM. Suggested regional initiatives for financial transaction security/PKI etc. as well as for post-graduate IT education.

Member State: BELIZE

Basic Data: Population: 222,020 (1996)
Area: 22,963
GDP: EC$ 1643.4 mn (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$ 6,909 (1993)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access,  including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Fairly reliable telecom and Internet service. Internet dial-up connections are 6000 and leased circuits 35 to corporate and institutions. BTL a private company, has monopoly up until 2003. In trade free zone another private company provides access to corporates located in the zone. Dial-up Internet is expensive at B$400 for 100 hrs. (against avg. wage of B$12-1500).   Total Dial-up connections are 6000 and leased circuits 35. Okay A private Free Trade Zone, concentrating mainly on Internet gaming has come up.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing  (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	No No No Different departments are chalking out plans to offer services on-line but this is not really being co-ordinated. ASYCUDA in Customs dept. exists but with no other links to trade transactions. Some ad hoc meetings held from time to time but no structured consultations.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	No legislation exists as of date. Nil Does not exist Patents and Trademarks Acts available. Public utilities commission and consumer protection law in place but does not cover Internet.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Severe shortage. Engineers form US need to come in for networking and technical support. Most of govt. and corporate staff already computer literate Local university just started Associate and degree course in computer science with present output of just 15. Some basic computers in schools and some private computer training available. Very low at the moment. No. Corporate culture very secretive.  Companies even hesitate to computerise their pay-roll!
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless E-Commerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry   (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Just 3 companies offering some IT services for local market. Several Internet gaming companies in privately run Free Trade Zone. Does not exist locally though use of credit cards to buy over web quite common. Not available. Even existing interest rates are relatively very high at 18%. Transparency is an issue. Regulations and laws exist but enforcement and audit capabilities need strengthening. Supportive.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/ FTAA (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Not formulated. Belize being somewhat away from rest of Caribbean sees itself more accessible to North and Central America.

Member State: DOMINICA

Basic Data:
Population: 70,000
Area: 750 sq. kms
GDP: US$ 280m
Per Capita: US$ 1040 (1997)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Very good telecommunications network with fibre covering all populated centres.  Internet subscribers are 3500. Second ISP (other then the monopoly Cable & Wireless) since 1997 and today after much legal battle, well and strong. Probably one of the cheapest services available. Dial-up 56Kunlimited at EC$5, against avg. wage at EC$ 2000p.m. Power from the private monopoly provider is an issue for reliability and cost. Not yet but planned.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative   (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Recognised to be important but not yet a national priority. Not yet formalised Ministry of Communications (with Telecom Advisor as focal point). An Inter-ministerial   committee for co-ordination also exists   Some departments computerising and establishing LANs. Efforts need coordination. Not available Not formal but improving.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Not available Not available Not available yet. Propose it to be on regional basis.   Trademark and patent legislation proposed to be updated Not available yet.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives   (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Very few available. Fair. Only school level and Community college basic computer courses. Education dept working on increasing both quantity and quality of IT teaching. Not very high yet. Not in any organised fashion.
5. E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless E-Commerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Very few IT companies and not much of IT in traditional businesses. Does not exist. Not available. (AID Bank did attempt to offer but unsuccessfully) Cost of capital high. Fairly okay. Encouraged
6. The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO, FTAA etc. (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Still under study and rely on RNM.

Member State: GRENADA

Basic Data:
Population: 98,600 (1996)
Area: 345 Sq Km
GDP: EC$791.1 (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$7,216 (1994)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Services and access centres are available but bandwidth is a major issue. There are presently 3200 Internet connections and 50 leased circuits. Presently there is only one ISP as the pro-cess of liberalisation of the sector as per the OECS agreement with Cable & Wireless is still to be made operational. 56K dial-up unlimited is EC$120 (against. Avg. wage EC$1500-2000). Lease line 256K is US$30,000! Okay but expensive. None at the moment but GIDC planning an IT Park over the next two years.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Yes Draft has been finalized and expect to announce it by October 2001. PM's Ministry leading initiative and implementing agency will be notified with policy.  Presently a project to establish a government WAN is on-going. This will be used for e-Government. Customs has ASACUDA but no EDI. An effective dialogue with the private sector is on-going.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Not yet but will be part of the policy/strategy. Not available. Not available. Existing IPR laws need to made compatible with WIPO recommendations. None available.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Today available as demand not high. Easily trainable. Very little IT in public sector but many private initiatives on. Growing. Educational system does not foster creativity and traditional business imbibed with secrecy.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless E-commerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for E-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Local IT industry is small but growing.  Existing industry is quite computerized and using the Internet but very few have IT integrated systems or their own websites. Merchant accounts for credit card transactions possible. Not available. Capital scarce and interest rate 11.5 percent. Reasonably good environment though some concerns about transparency. Policy of encouragement with a Fiscal Incentives Act in place in which ICT sector will be included.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/FTAA. (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Will depend on OECS and RNM recommendations. Recommend CARICOM should help create awareness, OECS should expedite ICT policy recommendations (though see no need to await for a formal policy from them).

Member State: GUYANA

Basic Data:
Population: 770,139 (1996)
Area: 214,970 Sq Km
GDP: EC$ 1,916 mn (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$ 2,003 (1994)

1. Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Fairly good telecommunication services with marginal spread of access centres in urban areas. Much higher demand than availability of Internet. Total Internet connections about 3000. Telecommunications under a monopoly. 5 ISPs operational with access through single gateway (one independent satellite based service)  Complaints of slow and unstable Internet access at high cost compared to standard of living. (Lease line 56/64(GT&T); (iNet) US$975 Dial-up 56k G$3000for 40hrs to 6200 unlimited) Okay generally but problem of fluctuations which are dangerous for IT equipment. Nil
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing   (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	No No, though a draft IT policy is under consideration Not yet identified. Nil (there are some information type websites of some of the govt. agencies) ASCUDA for data compilation at Customs HQs without link to port/airport or trade agencies. No such initiative nor any structured consultation between stakeholders There is however a committee for ICTs that has private sector participation.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key  infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Not available, nor under planning yet Nil   Not available Need for more stringent enforcement Agency for consumer protection and Public Utilities Commission set up but no provisions for Internet.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c)  Levels of IT teaching in the education system including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	IT graduates coming out with lack of  sufficient employment opportunities for the  present. Many migrate abroad. English speaking work-force with spreading usage of computers in public and private sectors. Reasonably good. Private teaching shops coming up. Presently very low Not effectively. Local culture creative but conservative background, especially in business.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless ECommerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Some IT companies operational with low level of IT in traditional enterprises  Not available. Credit card culture also barely exists. Not available Much room for improvement as perceived by private sector No specific notified policy but foreign investment encouraged
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO, FTAA etc. (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Still under consideration Recommend CARICOM level network.

Member State: Jamaica

Basic Data:
Population: 2,515,500 (1996)
Area: 10,991 Sq Km
GDP: EC$ 14,786.5 mn (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$ 4,160 (1994)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	High quality digital telecom network. Fibre ring round island connecting all important locations. Several access centres and networks. Estimated 3% population has Internet access. The total pool is estimated at 70,000. Govt. have been able to negotiate a phased liberalisation of the telecom sector with monopoly provider Cable and Wireless. Today some 40 ISPs but most having to use C&W gateway. Dial-up 56K at US$40 plus per minute phone charge to lease 128K at $1500 and T1 at $8750 make it rather expensive. Fairly reliable. Jamaica Digiport International is a Free Trade Zone that provides network services to the US.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative   (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Yes National IT strategy already exists and E-commerce policy under finalisation.   Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Technology is leading it along with JAMPRO, though the IT implementing agency still to be decided. Several government initiatives (Registry, Inland Revenue, accounts etc.) are under consideration and implementation but are yet to be coordinated. Other than ASYCUDA in the Customs dept. no other initiatives in place.  Not regulated.
3. Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Presently does not exist though preliminary consideration of possible legal initiatives has taken place. As the process is long and many many other Legislative Bills are in line for consideration, the process may be very long. Does not exist presently. As above.  Certification is seen as a major issue including for social e-Commerce initiatives such as e-Health. Fairly advanced. Not yet available for internet.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Today the availability is there mainly because E-Business has not developed to its potential. Fairly high Besides IT in secondary schools and the University, the Caribbean Institute of Technology (a joint sector initiative) provide IT education and training across a wide spectrum, as do several private teaching shops. Still very low. Certainly a high level of local creativity in the music and entertainment industry, for example, but a lack of information sharing particularly in the corporate sector.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless ECommerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions  (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Fairly developed IT sector and widespread usage of computers in business. Presently not there but coming into place. Capital for IT start-ups continues to be an issue. A feeling amongst private sector for greater implementation of existing regulation. Clear set of incentives available.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO, FTAA etc. (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Jamaica is one of the most pro-active in the region on its positioning at such fora but has not yet decided on a final position. At the CARICOM level could agree to a duty free environment and at the international level to an extension of the moratorium for a limited period.   Sees the advantages of collaborative initiatives as above.

Member State: MONTSERRAT

Basic Data:
Population; 10,608 (1996) - 5500-6000 (estimated today)
Area: 103 Sq. Km
GDP: EC$135.5 mn (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$ 15,304 (1993)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Fairly good considering the size and back-ground of economy. Only one ISP (Cable & Wireless, and a couple of Internet cafes. None. Dial up 56K @ EC$ 129. Lease 64K for EC$ 2400 per month, 128 for EC$4420 and T-1 at 40,000. Total internet connections are 500. Okay None
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Yes. No. The Development Unit along with the Govt. Information Systems. Nil ASACUDA used by Customs. No cohesive effort to involve private sector.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Nil Not available. Nil Trademarks and copyrights legislation in place. Needs to be updated.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business  (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Very severe shortage Computerisation common and skills could be easily upgraded with training. Computerisation introduced at secondary level. Presently limited No conscious initiative.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless ECommerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Virtually non-existent. Not available. No Very good environment. Encouraged.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/ FTAA   (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	As a British territory, such issues are handled by UK. Being a non-independent member of the region did not join the OECS initiative on telecom reform.

Member State: ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES

Basic Data:Population: 111,214 (1996)
Area: 388 Sq Km
GDP: EC$708.9 mn (1995)
GDP Per Capita: EC$5,964 (1993)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	(a)   Good network, fibre mostly with link to ECFS. Grenadines linked by microwave. PC penetration of around 3-4000. Internet connections 2700. (b)  Sector not yet opened up. (c)  56K unlimited at EC$129(plus 1c/min).(Agnst avg. wage ). There are some doubts about reliability. 64K EC3200 monthly, and T-1 at US$14,000. (d)  Okay (e)  None yet but planned
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority  (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing  (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Appears to be a priority as per several statements. Not yet. Awaiting ICT strategy from OECS. No formal decision but DEVCO leading effort. IT projects in Treasury and Inland Revenue. No e-Government planned yet. Customs with ASACUDA but not linked to customers or trade network. No specific consultation re. IT or e- Commerce.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Not available Nil Not available Old laws. Nil
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Severe shortage. Computer friendly and could be trained. Very little IT teaching or training available in public or private sector. Low No such policy
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless ECommerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Hardly any IT industry and IT in existing industry usually limited to some computer use and Internet access. Not available. Not available Fairly good. No documented policy but encouraged.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/ FTAA (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Depend on RNM Expect assistance from OECS.

Member State: St. KITTS and NEVIS

Basic Data:
Population: 43,530 (1995)
Area: 269 sq km
GDP: EC$ 667.3 mn (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$ 11,921 (1993)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Fairly high level of penetration and access. Double fibre ring around St. Kitts, and link to under fibre cable. Nevis via microwave. 2 ISPs - Cable & Wireless and The Cable. Competition has resulted in low Internet pricing- dial-up56K unlimited at EC$75 (with no phone charge for The Cable connection). Reliability and speed of The Cable connection very good. Total Internet connections are 3200 and growing. Lease lines (30 subscribers) 64K are upwards of EC$2640. Good. Nil for the moment but an IT park to establish a call centre is under planning for Nevis.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	E-Business a priority as per pronouncements in budget speech. Not yet Not clearly identified Very little though some moves towards computerisation and LANs in some departments. Only ASYCUDA in Customs. Nothing formal or regular.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Not available. Not available. Not available. Acts in place but updating to latest requirements proving to be difficult. Presently not available for Internet.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Availability fairly good in St. Kitts. Govt. and private sector office staff  eminently trainable most computer literate.  Computer labs established in schools. The one college at tertiary level has some 25 students doing IT education. Some private basic computer training being offered. Presently low but growing fast. Secrecy and non-sharing of information still traditional way of business. No institutional change underway.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless E-Commerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Some IT services being run in St. Kitts including Internet gaming. Financial services also hosting services locally. Also most businesses computerised and using Internet for email and websites but not doing e-Commerce online transactions. Does not exist. Not available. Though availability of small loans for small businesses exists. Fairly good.   Favourable.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/ FTAA (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	St. Kitts and Nevis will go along with the CARICOM position which is still under  study. View is that since basically importing economy, implications of e- Commerce must be carefully considered.

Member State: SAINT LUCIA

Basic Data:
Population: 145,213 (1995)
Area: 616 sq. km
GDP: EC$ 1,555 mn. (1996)
GDP Per Capita: EC$ 9,596 (1993)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Good services but some concern about capacity. Though liberalisation process has started and applications for ISPs received, presently only Cable & Wireless ISP. Dial-up 56K unlimited is EC$129 plus 0.75c per access. Against EC$ 2500-3000 as average wage. There are 4500 Internet connections. 64K lease is EC2400p.m. and T-1 at EC 18,000. Some concerns at stability and cost. None for the moment though a private sector initiative is under consideration.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Not yet A draft policy is under consideration. Some confusion exists in this matter. Though a government WAN exists t is not fully or effectively being utilised and there  are no e-Government services for the moment though there is a committee looking into it. Customs has ASYCUDA presently but no EDI. No structured consultation.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Nil In the proposed draft Criminal Code, computer fraud including misuse of data, distribution etc. is being addressed Not available. Trademarks and Patents regulations in place. Consumer Protection regulation is under consideration.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Presently there is availability. Already high computer literacy in work force. Same as in other OECS states with some more extensive level of private training. Estimated at 30% and rising. No policy towards this and therefore tradition of closed systems and secrecy in corporate culture especially continues.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless ECommerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Some good IT companies with good track record in existence. Most established enterprises have high computerisation and using Internet and websites. Not available. Not available. Some issues of transparency raised by industry. Policy encourages investment.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/ FTAA (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Would depend on RNM. For cost efficiencies and economies of scale, regional and sub-regional collaboration encouraged.

Member State: SURINAME

Basic Data:
Population: 408401 (1995)
Area: 163,820 Sq Km
GDP: EC$1,154.7 mn
GDP Per Capita: EC$8,881 (1993)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b)  Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	Telecom infrastructure still not countrywide. Availability is fairly good in urban areas but strong compliant from IT businesses re. Bandwidth. Internet dial-up connections are 5800. Telecom duopoly exists. 3 ISPs using satellite and fibre backbone. 33.6K unlimited at US$12 - 17.5( plus phone charge at US$0.0175per min) (Avg. Wage US$4-600). Lease 64K from US$120 to 175 monthly. 128K at US$325 and no ADSL or T-1. Reliable but some instability and cost issues raised. Nil
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Some talk of IT but not identified as national priority. No No Nil. Use of IT and email in government limited. ASYCUDA established 6 years ago but no on-line access. Trade dept. also computerised but no link or access for public. Nil. Consultation itself limited.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Nil Not available Nil Trademark/Copyright laws date from 1912. Not updated yet. Nil.
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Shortage because trained persons leave. Could be trained IT only now being introduced in schools and University has no computer science degree. Estimated at 4-5% Traditional systems. Not very flexible.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless E-Commerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	Very little e-Business. Computerization in existing industry 60-70% but negligible e-Commerce. Not available Not available. Regular loans from Banks at 30%plus interest/charge. Rules available but concerns about implementation. Encouraged. New investment policy (including for IT) under consideration.
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/ FTAA (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	Expect assistance from RNM. Recommend support from CARICOM for e-Business capacity development in areas of legal and policy framework.

 

Member State: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Basic Data:
Population: 1,269,100 (1996)
Area: 5128 Sq Km
GDP: EC$15,165.0 mn
GDP Per Capita: EC$12,002 (1994)

Infrastructural framework: Connectivity and cost (a) Availability of communication services, access centres and networked computers (b) Existence of effective competition among communication and information services providers (c) Affordability and reliability of network access, including the cost of service (against per capita/average wage) (d) Reliability of electrical supply for e-Business-critical operations (e) Existence of any incubator facilities/IT Parks	The monopoly provider today is TSTT  (51%Govt. and 49%Cable & Wireless ). Voice communication good but some  concerns re. Data. Internet connections are 60,000. Telecom bill has been passed by both houses of parliament but awaits promulgation. However competition has already stared and now 5 other ISPs also operate.   56K unlimited dial-up is TT300 monthly. Lease 64 is 10,000 and T-1 TT 208,000 per month. Only dial-up costs have fallen by half in last year not lease yet. Quite good Presently not but are planned for the future.
Policy Framework: E-Leadership and Participation (a) Is E-Readiness a national priority (b) Is there a national IT/E-Commerce plan or strategy existing (c) Is there an agency leading the initiative (d) Progress with e-Government and promotion of participation of citizens (e) Digitization of trade infrastructure and procedures (f) Partnerships between industry and government to improve E-Readiness	Yes A very detailed plan and strategy has been formulated for e-Commerce and for e-Government. A separate directorate of e-Commerce has been set up. E-Government also has a separate directorate and several plans are afoot to link up government departments and offer services on-line Customs still using the old version of ASYCUDA with no on-line linkages. Fairly extensive consultation and opinion building being carried out.
Legal Framework: Security and privacy (a) Legal support for e-Commerce transactions (b) Strength of legal protections for processing and storage of networked information (c) Strength and effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework to address and prosecute cyber crimes, authorize digital signatures, and enable public key infrastructures etc. (d) Progress in protecting intellectual property rights. (e) Measures of consumer protection and extent of efforts to protect privacy.	Partial support exists Computer Misuse Act, 2000 and Electronics Transfer of Funds Crime Act, 2000 in operation.  Electronics Transactions Bill and Electronic Evidence Bill are both under  consideration as is the question of regulatory authority. Totally compatible with WIPO. Consumer protection legislation needs to be extended to Internet
Human capacity framework: E-enabled Human Capital (a) Availability of e-professional for e-business (b) Skills and efficiency of the workforce (c) Levels of IT teaching in the education system, including private initiatives (d) E-literacy amongst citizens (e) Is the institutional framework fostering culture of local creativity and information sharing within the society	Today there is availability though experience is an issue. Very high and easily trainable for IT. IT teaching at several levels available and of high quality. Several private initiatives also there. Conscious plan to extend access and raise e-Literacy. Attempts are on but as system is state run it has limitations of capacity.
E-Business Environment: Enabling seamless E-Commerce (a) Present status of IT industry and IT in industry (b) Existence of e-enabled financial framework to support electronic transactions (c) Availability of venture capital for e-Business (d) Transparency and predictability of regulatory implementation, openness of government, rule of law, etc. (e) Climate and policy for participation by foreign investors in ICT businesses	IT industry is strong and developing. Also use of IT I industry is quite high with several businesses having their own websites. One Bank (Nova Scotia) provides a payment gateway for electronic online transactions over the Internet. There is a venture capital corporation but success rate is low. Quite high Actively encouraged
The International and Regional framework (a) Negotiating stand on E-Commerce at the WTO/ FTAA (b) Regional and sub-regional collaboration	A strong presence in FTAA discussions. Suggest harmonization amongst regional and international agencies.