Empowering ASEAN's Women Digital Entrepreneurs: Jakarta Hosts eTrade for Women Community Gathering

Jakarta, 23 October 2024: The UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) eTrade for Women initiative, in collaboration with ERIA, hosted a 'Community Gathering' in Jakarta for up to 20 women digital entrepreneurs. The event brought together current members of the eTrade for Women Communities from Indonesia and other local women entrepreneurs. Its goal was to foster collaboration, promote knowledge sharing, and strengthen networks amongst women digital entrepreneurs, while providing key insights into ASEAN digital economy policies.

The gathering took place at ERIA's Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy Centre (E-DISC) in Jakarta. Opening and facilitating the session was Arlin Chondro, founder of Peek.me and a leader within the eTrade for Women Community. The first discussion centred on the digital economy landscape in ASEAN, focusing on the upcoming ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) negotiations. Featured speakers included Mahirah Mahusin, E-DISC Programme Manager, and Lishia Erza, Chair of SME Capacity Building and Inclusive Economy at DPN APINDO (Indonesian Employers Entrepreneurs Association), with moderation by Lina Maulidina Sabrina, Senior Programme Officer at ERIA.

The second session addressed strategies for international market entry, leveraging e-commerce and digital trade specifically within ASEAN. Shaanti Shamdasani, President and Senior Advisor at S. ASEAN International Advocacy & Consultancy, and Von Leong, Co-Founder & General Partner of Purpose Venture Capital, shared insights on global market trends, market entry strategies, market research, and regulatory compliance. Mazlita Mat Hassan, Founder of RECQA and eTrade for Women Community Leader, served as moderator.

The event concluded with a networking session, providing an opportunity for participants to connect and exchange experiences in a supportive environment. This gathering reinforced public-private dialogue between women entrepreneurs and policy experts, laying the groundwork for ongoing collaboration and growth in ASEAN's digital economy.