Internet experts gather in Delhi

Delegates at Internet World 2000 in Delhi test new software

The internet has transformed the ground rules of the world economy, delegates at a major internet conference in Delhi have been told.

As a result even small countries can get huge benefits from the net, according to John Sculley of New York computer company, Sculley Brothers.

But he warned that most of the world is currently excluded from the internet revolution.

More than 170 internet service providers (ISPs) are attending the three-day India Internet World 2000 conference.

Advertising changes

Worldwide online advertising revenue is set to soar to $19bn by 2002, according to another delegate, Adam Boettiger.

Internet use is booming in India

Mr Boettiger, president of I-advertising.com, said dot.com companies are now spending 60% of their advertising revenue online, a significant increase.

At present, it is estimated that about four million people use the internet in India.

That is expected to rise to 23 million by 2003, helped by market deregulation last year.