Abstract
The recent proliferation of privacy protection laws has had a significant impact on transborder data flows, frequently inhibiting the free flow of information across national borders. Such legislation appears to have been enacted in order to protect the privacy interests of individuals; however, it has had the effect of weakening international trade and strengthening the enacting governments against influence from other nations. No government has explicitly stated that it intends its privacy legislation to have this effect; however, it is clear that many nations have been motivated by more than a desire to protect their citizens' privacy. The privacy legislation of several developed nations is discussed, together with its impact on international trade and national sovereignty.