Sub-Regional Workshop on International Merchandise Trade Statistics Compilation and Export and Import Unit Value Indices 21 – 25 November 2016. Guam Reef & Olive Spa Resort, Tamuning, Guam LEGAL FRAMEWORK Presentation by Nilima Lal Economic Statistician, Pacific Community Email: NilimaL@spc.int
Importance of the legal framework What it includes legal agreements relevant laws and regulations that govern data-provision relations all other aspects of data compilation and dissemination in a country What it does mandates and enables the national agency responsible for the overall compilation and dissemination of IMTS to collect, compile, and disseminate high-quality trade statistics safeguards the confidentiality of the individual data
Types of legal acts Legal acts relevant for trade statistics exist at three different levels: Legal acts governing the declaration of customs documentation: WCO WTO UN Revenue collection Legal acts regulating the collection, processing and dissemination of trade statistics and the working relations of the concerned agencies Legal acts regulating non-customs data sources Effective institutional arrangements Legal acts protecting the confidentiality of information. should be reported in aggregate form so that the confidential aspects of operations are not identified
Recommendation for PICTs Statistics Acts Memorandum of Understanding To ensure: Availability of, and access to, the necessary data sources such as customs records and non-customs sources Establishment of effective institutional arrangements Protection of confidentiality