More businesses are being encouraged to utilise the e-commerce platform to cut operational costs and improve their bottom-line, through enhanced sales and exposure via the internet.

This advice comes from the Division of Trade, Industry and Commerce’s, E-Commerce Development Officer, Chesterfield Coppin.

In outlining the benefits of e-commerce during a recent interview with the Barbados Government Information Service, he noted: "There are a number of benefits to be derived from utilising this technology.?? The entrepreneur can benefit from increased sales, while at the same time, reducing their operational costs.?? On the other hand, Government can also trim down its expenses by providing more online services for its citizens and procuring more of its goods online."

Mr. Coppin alluded to a stepped-up public awareness campaign to educate the public about the benefits of e-commerce. "The Ministry will continue to promote activities that seek to highlight the benefits of e-commerce to the economy, by holding a number of workshops and seminars to this effect," he stated.

Although unable to give specific figures on the number of entrepreneurs engaged in online transactions, the E-Commerce Development Officer said plans are in train to execute a number of projects to guage the true impact of e-commerce activities on the island’s economic development.

The E-commerce project was conceptualised by the Division of Trade in 2007, as an additional avenue to promote the activities of small businesses across the island.

jwilson@barbados.gov.bb

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