Gender and Services Trade in the APEC Region: Policy Brief

This policy brief was inspired by the presentations and discussions that were part of the session entitled “Inclusive Growth: Gender and trade in services” which took place during the APEC Services Competitiveness Roadmap Annual Dialogue 2023 on 18 May 2023 in Detroit, USA. The purpose of this policy brief is to expand on the topics discussed as well as to reinforce the importance of this work stream for GOS by providing recommendations for consideration by APEC officials. This brief explores the importance of servicification and its rise in APEC. It draws attention to several positive aspects of servicification for women’s economic empowerment and fostering gender equality. It goes on to consider the transformative potential of the digitalization of services trade for generating opportunities for women through reducing gender equality gaps. The brief includes several recommendations for action by APEC economies that would contribute to unlocking the full potential of services trade and contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic growth.