This paper examines the current advantages and limitations of the developing Global Information Infrastructure (GII) for commerce from the point of view of today’s players. It is based on the interim results of an Expert Survey being carried out as part of the ACTS project SEMPER (Secure Electronic Marketplace for Europe)1 . The findings can be broadly categorised as ‘network’ and ‘non-network’ influences on participation in electronic commerce, i.e. those directly related to the use of computer technology for connecting to and navigating in open networks and the non-technical influences on the willingness or ability to conduct business in this environment. The analysis is primarily based on use of the Internet because it is currently the most widely used precursor of the GII.