The top-level domain (TLD) ´.TRADE´ is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) in the Domain Name System of the Internet. A TLD is the last segment of every domain name and it is assigned by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN).
The .TRADE TLD was delegated to Elite Registry Limited by ICANN in 2014 as part of the New gTLD Program, an initiative to increase the number of TLDs to provide greater choice and stimulate innovation. As stated in the ICANN’s registry agreement, this decision was part of a process to enhance competition and consumer choice, and enable the benefits of innovation via the introduction of new gTLDs (source: ICANN).
The .TRADE domain is specially designed for businesses, organizations, and individuals engaged in trading and international commerce. The word ‘trade’ is universally recognized and understood in many languages and cultures around the world, thereby making .TRADE a versatile and useful TLD for every kind of trader, from amateur online traders who buy and sell items as a hobby, through to professional trading entities and platforms.
For example, a trader selling vintage watches could set up a .TRADE site to showcase their collection and find potential customers. Similarly, a large corporation involved in international trade could use a .TRADE domain to create a professional online presence that clearly communicates the nature of their business. This level of specificity that new TLDs bring to the internet can assist organizations in establishing their brand and being more accessible to their clients or customers.
Each TLD implements its own registration rules, and .TRADE is no exception. According to the rules set by Elite Registry, the .TRADE domain can be registered by any individual, group, or business and is unrestricted (source: Elite Registry’s website). This means that anyone can register a .TRADE domain, and the process is typically facilitated through online domain registrar websites.
In conclusion, the .TRADE top-level domain provides a useful tool for individuals and organizations engaged in trade and commerce due to its universal recognition. The advent of new TLDs under ICANN’s New gTLD Program has expanded the possibilities for online representation and branding. As the internet continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how businesses, organizations, and individuals will further use TLDs like .TRADE.
Sources:
1. ICANN (2014). New gTLD Program. https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/program-status/delegated-strings
2. Elite Registry. https://www.eliteregistry.com/trade-domain-registration
3. ICANN (2012). Policymaking for New gTLD. https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/gtldhistory-2018-12-06-en
