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NBS minute signals reform in China's economic statistical system

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-10-05 20:14

BEIJING - China's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) under new chief Ma Jiantang is likely to reform its statistical system to ensure the authenticity and timeliness of data and help the government to better cope with the uncertainties of outside economic influences, the minutes of an NBS meeting show.

After his inauguration as the NBS director, Ma has said he felt pressure, but was confident of taking over "the baton of statistical reform and development".

"The changing world economy, especially the financial turmoil triggered by the US sub-prime mortgage crisis, had increased the uncertainties of China's macro-economic development and stability and set new tasks for statisticians," said Ma.

"I would like to work with all NBS staff together to advance reforms and innovations in statistical systems, indices and methods to make sure statistical work could better serve the pursuit of scientific development to shift the target of economic expansion from quantity to quality, and building a moderately prosperous society."

According to the minute, Ma gave no details of his reform plans. But his predecessor, Xie Fuzhan, who was transferred to head the Research Office of the State Council, admitted in his leaving speech that the foundation for China's statistical work remained feeble, with a lot to be done in optimizing statistical methods and management.

"Both the status of statistical departments and the capability of statisticians needs to improve to meet their obligations and fulfill their tasks," Xie said. He took up the post two years ago after his predecessor Qiu Xiaohua fell over fund scandal.

Authorized by the State Council to examine and calculate the economic output nationwide and to collect and compile economic figures for almost all industries and sectors, the NBS offers basic statistical information and policy advice for higher authorities and government departments.

Ma, a doctor of economics who graduated from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, viewed authenticity and timeliness as "the lifeblood of statistics work" and "the way for statisticians to conduct themselves".

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