[icernet] The Web fails to be profitable in developing nations

[Arul Selvan]

Attempts to bring the Internet to developing nations may be unsuccessful, new research suggests. The Internet has been said to be one way developing nations could increase their trade with richer countries, the BBC reports. Though many countries have embraced the idea, the reality is very different according to a new report sponsored by the UK Department for International Development and released in Bangladesh, Kenya and South Africa. Research shows that the Internet alone is unlikely to stimulate trade. International buyers need more than just e-mail and a Web site to create trust, the article says. Another problem is a lack of suitable online payment options. And even if these options were available, few large businesses would buy without personal contact, the research suggests. But there are a few success stories. One avocado buyer in Chile found a new supply source in Africa thanks to the Net, the BBC reports.

Source:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/2910809.stm