Washington - Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for increased transparency and fairness in the functioning of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). She spoke about the need for the WTO to be progressive and fair to all its members and give voice to all rather than just hearing their concerns.

Sitharaman specifically pointed out the need for a policy change in the WTO's moratorium on electronic transmissions, which has been in place since 1998. Despite the evolution of technology and the increasing significance of the digital age, the moratorium has remained unchanged. Sitharaman argued that the policy needs to be reviewed, and the WTO needs to be more transparent in addressing issues that affect its members.

India has been a vocal opponent of the continuation of the moratorium on customs duties on e-commerce trade, arguing that it disproportionately affects developing countries. At a WTO meeting in Geneva last year, India voiced its concerns about the policy and called for a change.

Despite India's objections, the WTO Ministerial Conference decided to extend the moratorium on taxation on e-commerce transactions but with a deadline of 2024. Sitharaman's remarks suggest that India remains committed to advocating for a more equitable approach to e-commerce trade within the WTO.