1. Sub-Regional Workshop on International Merchandise Trade Statistics Compilation and Export and Import Unit Value Indices 21 – 25 November Guam Reef & Olive Spa Resort, Tamuning, Guam DATA PROCESSING AND DATA BASE MANAGEMENT Presentation by Nilima Lal Economic Statistician, Pacific Community

2. Data processing and data base management
Importance: both Customs and at NSO.
Basic concepts:
Statistical data processing and statistical information systems
IMTS compilation involves collecting, processing, storing, retrieving, analysing and disseminating statistical data. These processes are structured according to particular institutional arrangements and are mostly carried out with the help of information systems infrastructure (including database management systems).
Database management systems
The basic functions of a statistical database management system are to create, retrieve, update, and delete specified data (often referred to by the CRUD acronym) during the various stages of the statistical data processing cycle. These operations are performed by the database management system on data stored in a database according to a particular data model.

3. Data processing and data base management systems used
At Customs
In PICTs we have ASYCUDA, PC Trade and national systems.
At NSOs
At NSOs we have PC Trade, SAS, Excel and Access

4. Recommendation for PICTs
Use a processing system that you can operate.