1. 4.3 National Methodological Handbook1

2. 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

3. 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

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

5. Proposed structure ISSUES, GAPS, and IMPROVEMENTS PLANS ANNEXES:
2.7. Dissemination
Media used
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

6. 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?