The aim of this forum was to provide some valuable insight into the current discussions and debates taking place across Europe, whilst exploring the important developments that are shaping the future of the Internet economy.

 

“The consistent level of participation at this and similar fora confirms our belief that despite Malta’s small size, a concerted effort needs to be made to provide the opportunity for the stakeholders in any industry to discuss topics of mutual interest and to share experiences and knowledge.” said Ing. Philip Micallef, Executive Chairman of the MCA whilst welcoming the delegates to the forum.  

 

Ms Celia Falzon, Chief of External Relations at the MCA, set the tone of the discussion by presenting the salient points emerging from an eCommerce Communication that the EU Commission recently adopted.

 

As Ing. Micallef rightly stated in his opening speech, this Communication “highlights the need for a increased effort in exploiting the enormous potential brought about by eCommerce and the Internet.”

 

To better understand the recent EU proposal for a Common European Sales Law, Dr Ciantar from Fenech and Fenech Advocates, presented the critical points of this proposal.

 

Mr Ciappara, Head of Payments & Banking at the Central Bank, followed, providing an interesting overview of the European initiative aimed at phasing out legacy euro payment schemes for credit transfers and direct debits, set for February 2014.

 

Findings of the MCA’s first quantitative survey on internet and eCommerce use by local businesses were also launched during this forum. This survey, conducted by M. Fsadni & Associates, complements the qualitative studies that the Authority carried out in this area in previous years. 

 

Ms Denise Borda, eCommerce Analyst at the MCA, delivered a presentation about one of the Authority’s latest initiatives, the eTrust mark, which is aimed at assisting local traders to effectively communicate their credibility and trustworthiness to potential customers.

 

This forum also featured an inspiring presentation by Mr Ivo Camilleri, Executive Head eBanking at the Bank of Valletta, who shared the objectives and experiences in launching the BOV mobile payments application.

Presentations given during this forum will be published shortly.