Developing compilation methods and data sources relating to the ESA update as concerns Data as an Asset and Natural Resources, improving and harmonising GNI data

ongoing

This project aims at developing compilation methods for two new innovations of ESA update and also improving compilation methods for GNI data. First objective is to develop compilation methods and data sources relating to the ESA update as concerns Data as an Asset. The project enables Statistics Finland to create and implement processes needed to calculate the value of data as defined in 2025 SNA, Handbook on measuring data in the System of National Accounts. The other objective is to develop compilation methods and data sources relating to the ESA update as concerns Natural Resources. The project will primarily focus on developing estimates for timber resources, forest land and its depletion, which are part of biological resources. These components are emphasized because they have the greatest impact on national accounts in Finland. The recommendations on data sources and methodology provided in the 2025 SNA and the natural resources handbook will be applied in the Finland’s calculations. The Natural Resources Institute Finland, which provides the forest account, will share its expertise on forest statistics. Third objective is to to further improve the quality of GNI estimation. Member States should ensure that NR-VATTs are accurately reflected in GNI calculations. Accordingly, Statistics Finland will carry out a more thorough investigation into the existence of such units and, where necessary and feasible, apply appropriate statistical adjustments to the GNI data. The project will examine how various data sources could be more comprehensively utilised in recording the foreign trade of NR-VATTs, in accordance with the principle of economic ownership.