The Department for Enterprise says it is actively engaging with major digital platforms to remove barriers for local businesses.
Access to the payment service Stripe remains unavailable for companies based in the three Crown Dependencies.
In response to a question from Onchan MHK Julie Edge, Minister for Enterprise Tim Johnston said: “The department does not hold data on the number of island-based retailers that may have registered UK entities for the purpose of accessing Stripe, nor the associated economic impact.”
He acknowledged that the situation “may increase costs and limit opportunities for impacted businesses,” though direct tax leakage is thought to be minimal.
The department confirmed ongoing talks with Stripe, which recently included the island for a new product, signalling progress.
Mr Johnston said DfE’s broader ‘Global Digital Access’ initiative has secured progress in other areas, including Etsy Payments for Manx businesses and the island’s inclusion in Google’s app development process.