In this chapter, we sought to provide a snapshot of the regulatory approaches being taken in the ICT sector in various jurisdictions in Asia. We focused on the following areas to draw out observations and comparisons between regulatory approaches in developing and developed ICT markets in Asia:

• Key institutions and organizations dealing with ICT
• Key ICT policies, thrusts, and programs
• Citizen-focused e-government services
• ICT policy and improving access to education
• Growth of Open Source software
• Growth of localized digital content and its regulation

Across developed ICT markets, regulators and policymakers are focusing on developing a more inclusive approach to enable larger segments of the population to use ICTs and benefit from them. Indeed, for holistic development of an ICT sector, especially the kind of development that will enable developing ICT markets to compete in an environment marked by rapid technological changes, policies, and regulations that address the demand side of the ICT equation are necessary.

Developing ICT markets in Asia seem to realize this as well, although understandably, the focus in such markets is on state-sponsored build-up of physical ICT infrastructure and the development of indigenous ICT services sectors that have lower personnel and operating costs, while also trying to encourage ICT adoption among the populace.

Whether and to what extent these regulatory approaches lead to the beneficial evolution of ICT markets in Asia remain to be seen. But the recognition of the need for policies that holistically address the demand and supply sides of the ICT equation for the healthy development of competitive ICT markets in Asian jurisdictions is certainly encouraging.

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