The Trans-Pacific Partnership: Preserving a Free and Open Internet

[Commentary] The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) has first-ever commitments that will promote a free and open digital economy and serve as a template for 21st century trade agreements going forward. TPP contains a comprehensive set of commitments to promote a free and open Internet, including provisions to:

• Promote the free flow of data.
• Combat forced localization of server capacity.
• Prevent forced tech transfer.
• Enhance transparency and public participation.
• Strengthen consumer protection.
• Open markets for digital goods and services.
• Establish duty-free treatment for IT goods.
• Promote competitive telecom markets.
• Facilitate digital trade and e-commerce.
• Achieve a balanced approach to IP.

[Alan Davidson is the first director of Digital Economy at the U.S. Department of Commerce, and senior adviser to the Secretary of Commerce]