How cyber security standards help remove technical barriers to trade

In today's interconnected world, international trade relies heavily on digital systems and data exchange. International standards can help ensure the security and integrity of these digital transactions.

Technical barriers to trade can emerge when countries or organizations have varying cyber security practices, which hinder the smooth flow of goods and services. To address this issue, international standards provide a common framework for cyber security.

The two best-known and most trusted cyber security standards are ISO/IEC 27001 for IT and IEC 62443 for the operational technology (OT) found in cyber-physical systems. Both of these standards contribute to removing technical barriers to trade in several ways.

Safeguarding information security

ISO/IEC 27001 is a globally recognized standard that sets the guidelines for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It provides guidance on systematically identifying, managing and mitigating information security risks.

ISO/IEC 27001 provides a comprehensive framework for protecting sensitive information, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data. It helps remove technical barriers to trade in several ways, especially when combined with conformity assessment.

Firstly, ISO/IEC 27001 provides a set of requirements that align with various legal, regulatory and contractual obligations. By complying with these requirements, organizations can demonstrate conformity with internationally recognized security standards.

And compliance with ISO/IEC 27001 helps remove barriers arising from differing security expectations between trading partners.

Secondly, ISO/IEC 27001 emphasizes a risk-based approach to information security. Effective risk management reduces the chances of disruptions in trade due to cyber threats, ensuring a more stable and secure trading environment.

Protecting critical infrastructure

IEC 62443 is a series of international standards designed explicitly for the cyber security of industrial automation and control systems (IACS). It provides guidelines for implementing robust security measures in sectors such as manufacturing, energy and transport.

IEC 62443 helps remove technical barriers to trade by establishing consistent cyber security standards. It provides guidance on securing the supply chain and provides a risk-based approach to industrial cyber security.

In industries where equipment and technologies are often sourced from multiple countries, varying cybersecurity practices can impede interoperability and hinder trade. IEC 62443 establishes consistent security standards for IACS components and systems.

IEC 62443 addresses security considerations throughout the supply chain of industrial products. It provides guidelines for secure development practices, configuration, and deployment of IACS components.

A secure supply chain reduces the risk of compromised or counterfeit products. This helps to ensure the integrity and reliability of goods traded between countries.

Lastly, IEC 62443 emphasizes a risk-based approach to industrial cyber security to support business continuity and avoid disruptions to trade operations. It describes proactive risk management that helps to promote stability and trust in industrial sectors.