Unified Data Highways – The Next Frontier of Digital Public Infrastructure

As data is increasingly being recognized as the backbone of the digital economy, the drive for enabling responsible data sharing to unlock ecosystem-wide innovation is gaining momentum rapidly. Unified Data Highways (UDH), which are data-sharing networks built on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) principles, are positioned to play a pivotal role in helping emerging nations unlock the full potential of their data.

This report, a collaboration between the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Boston Consulting Group (BCG), delves into the evolution and transformative potential of UDH across eight key sectors in 24 countries. By enabling secure, interoperable, and scalable data sharing, UDHs are projected to generate $3-4 trillion for emerging economies annually by 2030, representing 5-6% of their projected GDP. The report underscores UDH as powerful catalysts for collaborative innovation and enhanced public services, while also simplifying the day-to-day lives of citizens—making tasks like voting, booking bus tickets, and accessing seamless healthcare services more efficient and hassle-free.

To help nations fully realize the benefits of UDH, the report presents 15 guiding principles that address governance, technology, and execution. It offers strategic guidance on overcoming critical challenges such as ensuring widespread adoption, developing sustainable business models, and maintaining robust governance of data sharing. The report calls for strong collaboration between governments, the private sector, and international organizations to navigate these challenges and maximize the impact of UDH, paving the way for sustainable, responsible, and inclusive digital transformation.