This edition builds on the inaugural Pacific Digital Economy Report released in 2022, which highlighted the early-stage nature of digital development in the region. The report assessed how Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) could leverage digital technologies to support sustainable development, bridge digital divides, and enhance integration into the global economy.

The 2024 report deepens this analysis by linking foundational digital infrastructure with the realworld challenges faced by digital entrepreneurs, and the barriers to digital trade. While connectivity has improved across Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS), foundational gaps in digital  infrastructure, entrepreneurship support, and trade facilitation continue to hinder full participation in the global digital economy. Only through coordinated efforts across these areas can Pacific SIDS fully realise the benefits of the global digital economy.

In her opening remarks, the European Union Ambassador to the Pacific, H.E. Ms. Barbara Plinkert said that the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated a fundamental shift towards digital economy, which continues to unlock opportunities and foster innovation.

“The European Union is proud to support the Digital Economy Report: Pacific Edition 2024, a comprehensive report that highlights the significant progress made in digital connectivity across the Pacific region. At the same time, the report emphasises the need for targeted policy interventions to address challenges in areas such as digital literacy, access to finance, and the affordability of digital services. The European Union is committed to promoting a global, open, stable, and secure cyberspace, based on the rule of law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, and democratic values. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Pacific region to advance their digital transformation journey, including cybersecurity, and achieve inclusive and sustainable development.” said H.E Barbara Plinkert, European Union Ambassador to the Pacific.
 

“Realising the full potential of the digital economy requires strong collaboration between governments, the private sector, civil society, and development partners” (Mr Pedro Manuel Moreno, Deputy Secretary General, UNCTAD)

Bridging the Digital Divide
The report underscores that despite investments in connectivity, rural and remote communities
remain underserved, limiting equitable access to digital opportunities. Addressing these gaps requires coordinated infrastructure development and policies that promote universal access.
Strengthening Digital Entrepreneurship Pacific entrepreneurs face barriers such as limited access to finance, skills shortages, and regulatory constraints. The report calls for targeted support mechanisms, including improved digital literacy, tailored financing models, and business-friendly digital regulations.

Unlocking Digital Trade Potential
Trade-related constraints, such as inefficient cross-border payment systems, weak consumer
protections, and a lack of harmonized digital trade policies—continue to limit e-commerce growth. Regional cooperation on regulatory frameworks and mutual recognition agreements can help overcome these barriers.

A Roadmap for Inclusive Digital Growth
The findings align with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Pacific Regional Ecommerce Strategy and Roadmap, reinforcing the need for a comprehensive approach to digital development. The report emphasizes that unlocking the full potential of the digital economy will require sustained investment, policy harmonization, and strengthened public-private partnerships. These insights provide a strategic direction for Pacific governments, businesses, and development partners to build a more inclusive and resilient digital economy.

“The Pacific Digital Economy Report 2024 highlights the potential of digital transformation to drive growth and resilience in our region. It shows how digital platforms can help Pacific businesses overcome geographical barriers, access global markets, and create local opportunities. But to realise these benefits, we must tackle challenges like connectivity, digital skills, and regulatory gaps. The report is both a roadmap and a call to action for inclusive and sustainable digital development”. (Ms Desna Solofa, Deputy Secretary General, PIFS)

More than 200 representatives from government, the private sector, development agencies, and civil society attended the launch. The programme featured a high-level panel discussion with speakers from NGOs, the private sector, and international development organisations, exploring how digital transformation can empower the Pacific and unlock inclusive economic growth.
During the launch, the EU officially handed over the report to the PIFS, marking a significant step towards the region’s growing ownership and leadership in advancing the Pacific’s digital development agenda.

The Digital Economy Report: Pacific Edition 2024 was produced under the Pacific Digital Economy Programme (PDEP), a joint initiative of UNCDF, UNDP and UNCTAD. PDEP is supported by the European Union and the Governments of Australia and New Zealand.