Conceptual framework for the development of statistics on international trade in services A. Introduction 2.1.
The present chapter identifies the need for a
framework within which to compile statistics on
international trade in services, describes relevant
aspects of existing statistical systems and standards,
and sets out the approach and framework adopted in
the Manual.
2.2.
Section II.B discusses the users’ statistical
requirements addressed in the Manual. It considers
both general requirements and the detailed
information needs of GATS with regard to
classification detail, information by origin and
destination, and information by modes of supply.
Section II.C carries out a review of standard statistical
systems and classifications related to trade in services.
This review describes relevant aspects of existing
statistical standards, for which consistency with the
Manual is sought, and assesses the extent to which the
Manual needs to complement these standards as the
best means of meeting the user needs discussed in the
previous section. Section II.D describes the Manual’s
approach and its main framework, as built on the SNA
and BPM5 statistical systems, and identifies one area
where it goes beyond these systems. The main
framework has four components:
(a)
BPM5 concepts and classification related to
international trade in services (transactions between
residents and non-residents);
(b) BPM5 extensions, providing for more detailed
information on transactions by product category and by
