This paper examines the evolving landscape of Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) in the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on the integration of digital economy related provisions that address affordability of access, digital trust, and innovation.

Key findings reveal that Asia-Pacific PTAs are increasingly embedding provisions to ensure affordable access to digital technologies, aiming to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive economic growth. The analysis also underscores the importance of building digital trust, with over 60 agreements featuring robust provisions for personal data protection, and online consumer rights. This focus on legal safeguards is essential in fostering consumer and business confidence in digital transactions and services.

Moreover, the paper delves into how these PTAs are nurturing innovation, particularly through provisions related to cross-border data flows, data localization, and interactive computer services. The inclusion of advanced digital concepts like AI, machine learning, and data governance showcases the region's commitment to fostering a technologically advanced and ethically responsible digital economy.

Overall, this paper highlights the ongoing efforts in incorporating digital considerations into Asia-Pacific PTAs. The dynamic reflects a shift from traditional trade policy models towards ones that prioritize digital economy integration, digital inclusivity and sustainability.