4.3 National Methodological Handbook 1

Why a methodological handbook ? - Some methodological information is available for MPCs on various sources: National documentation, SDDS, GDDS, CSSR, mission reports, asymmetry studies,…. - But there is no unique document about detailed information on the methodology used by each Mediterranean partner with a unique structure. - A specific methodological documentation would be useful in the frame of the MEDSTAT programme as an output of the programme but probably for MPCs as well - A common structure would facilitate comparisons between MPCs - The handbook would be a complement to the Quality report - The handbook could remain internal or (preferably) be published by MPCs

Proposed structure INTRODUCTION : GENERAL INFORMATION Purpose of the Handbook Use of External Trade Statistics GENERAL INFORMATION 1.1 Legal Basis 1.2 Organisation 1.3 Contacts

Proposed structure 2. METHODOLOGY 2.1. Data sources 2.2. Conceptual Framework reference 2.3. Main Concepts 2.3.1. Trade System 2.3.2. Partner Country 2.3.3. Valuation 2.4. Classifications 2.4.1. Products 2.4.1.1. Basic classifications 2.4.1.2. Specific groupings (technology level,…) 2.4.2. Partner Country 2.4.3. Supplementary units 2.4.4. Other classifications (mode of transport,…) 2.5. Goods included/Goods excluded 2.6. Additional data processing 2.6.1. Seasonal adjustment 2.6.2. CIF/FOB adjustment 2.6.3. Production of Unit value indices 2.6.4. Other

Proposed structure ISSUES, GAPS, and IMPROVEMENTS PLANS ANNEXES: 2.7. Dissemination 2.7.1. Media used 2.7.2. Dissemination rules (free access, confidentiality,…) ISSUES, GAPS, and IMPROVEMENTS PLANS 3.1. Main issues and gaps 3.2. Improvement plans ANNEXES: 1. List of Customs procedures included in trade statistics 2. List of Customs procedures excluded from trade statistics

Proposed structure QUESTIONS TO PARTICIPANTS: What is the participant opinion about the principle of drafting a methodological Handbook? What is the opinion about the proposed structure?