e-Business Trade Roadmap 
Step 4: Electronic Trade Negotiations

Companies may choose to conduct trade negotiations within a structured and automated framework or they may opt to manage the process independently.

A. Automated Trade Solutions

Automated trade solutions streamline the negotiation process and introduce checks and balances which mitigate risks by bundling all trade related services

Examples of Automated Solutions:

• TradeCard
• ariba
• www.exporta.com

B. Independent Trade Solutions

The decision to conduct trade negotiations independently requires companies to assemble critical trade data and negotiate all aspects of the deal without electronic aids, prompts or third party oversight.

C. Independent Data Collection

Automated trade solutions provide access to data and facilitation services. If not using an automated solution, companies may wish to independently collect relevant data.

Online Resources:

• XE.com: Currency Converter
• OANDA.com: The Currency Site: Provides currency and foreign exchange rates to investors, travelers and businesses.

D. Independent Trade Negotiations

In conducting trade negotiations independently, companies need to consider alternative online payment options, electronic letters of credit and e-dispute resolution mechanisms.

E. e-Dispute Resolution

In the absence of third party oversight companies need to consider in advance how disputes will be handled and factor these options into the negotiated agreement.

Online Resources:

• International Chamber of Commerce
• Hague Conference on Private International Law