Background

The development of a sound statistical system is key to the implementation of evidence-based policies. While internationally agreed statistical definitions, concepts, and methodologies regarding international trade statistics are long established, implementation challenges still exist in some countries in the region owing to deficiencies of robust data collection systems, weaknesses in compilation and dissemination, and poor institutional coordination, among others. The challenges are especially pronounced for trade in services, which are inherently more difficult to measure due to their intangibility. Furthermore, the increasing globalization of production processes and new developments in information and communication technologies pose new methodological challenges. Moreover, the growing importance of e-commerce, which has been more evident since the COVID-19 pandemic, requires compilers to be proficient with new approaches to collecting the related data. This calls for continuous capacity building in the region on compilation of international trade statistics.

Objectives

The objective of this course is to strengthen participants’ understanding of the conceptual and methodological framework governing the compilation of international trade statistics and their various data sources. The course also aims to address emerging data challenges related to compilation of these statistics, such as informal cross-border transactions and digital trade.

Course Content

The course, among others, covers the assessment of:

• i. Treatment of Goods in Balance of Payments and compilation issues;
• ii. Manufacturing services on physical inputs owned by others and Merchanting;
• iii. Construction services;
• iv. Transport services;
• v. Travel;
• vi. Insurance and Pension services;
• vii. Financial Services;
• viii. Maintenance and repair services;
• ix. Telecommunications, computer and information services; and
• x. Other services.

Target Group

This course targets middle to senior economists in Central Banks and Ministries of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and other related institutions that are involved in compilation and analysis of BOP/IIP.