Isle Of Man Government Releases Details Of E-Commerce/E-Society Strategy

by Amanda Banks, Tax-news.com

11 June 2001

The Manx government publised a report last week setting out in detail the development of its strategy that has enabled the jurisdiction to fast become one of the world's leading e-commerce centres and most advanced 'e-societies.'

Entitled 'The E-Commerce and E-Society Strategy,' the report builds on an initial strategy document approved by Tynwald in July 2000. It reveals that the Isle of Man has one of the highest levels of Internet access in the world, close to that of North America and Scandinavia, with nearly half (43%) of all households now connected. The government states that it is keen to ensure that everyone on the Island continues to have the opportunity to gain access to the new technology and the Strategy for the future.

The report reflects continuing consultation across the public and private sectors. It spells out the Island's unique package of advantages as an offshore e-commerce centre, in respect of: Government support, telecommunications infrastructure, legislation, political stability and international reputation, low taxation, education, professional services, e-Government, financial regulation and consumer protection.

It also contains information on the 'JUPITER' project, which aims to deliver joined-up electronic Government to the public and businesses with services on offer such as the facility to file tax returns via the Internet and the provision of electronic information on all government services.

Chief Minister, Donald Gelling MHK, who wrote a foreward for the report, will move at the June sitting of Tynwald that the E-Commerce and E-Society Strategy be received and endorsed.

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