Chapter 1.9: Developing Statistics in China

Du Xishuang, Director, Senior Statistician, National Bureau of Statistics

Overview

Statistical work in China: origin and development

Efforts to initiate statistical activities and set up a statistical system in the new China started soon after the founding of the People's Republic. In October 1949, a Statistics Division was set up under the Commission of Finance and Economy of the central people's government. The National Bureau of Statistics was set up in August 1952. Subsequently, statistical structures and various statistical systems were established by localities, departments, enterprises and institutions across the country. During the 'Great Cultural Revolution' in the mid-and late-1960s, most statistical structures were either demolished or merged. Statistical work across the country suffered serious destruction with statistical activities in many organization plunged into virtual standstill.

After China adopted the policy of reform and opening-up in 1978, statistical work was soon resumed. By gradually being incorporated into the legal framework, statistical work has entered a new era of reform and development.

Since the 1980s, especially since the 1990s, with the deepening of economic restructuring and opening-up, profound reforms have been carried out to China's statistical system. Significant changes have occurred in the following major respects:

• With regard to statistical service, the long-standing self-enclosure of statistical work has been gradually replaced by the opening up to society and to the rest of the world. More and more statistical information is regularly disseminated to the general public both at home and abroad. Exchanges with other countries and relevant international organizations have been expanded. Necessary statistical data are regularly provided to international organizations including the World Bank, IMF, UN Statistical Division, FAO etc. Major aspects of statistical methods have been brought in line with international organizations' norms and can be used directly in international comparison.

• With regard to the accounting system, the longstanding material production system (MPS) is gradually being replaced by the new national economics accounting system (SNA). This new system, which enables systematic accounting and description of the national economy through production accounts, input-output accounts, flow of funds accounts, balance of payments accounts, assets-liabilities accounts and economic circulation accounts, has brought national accounting in conformity with international accounting practices.

• With regard to statistical indicators and standards, the traditional system suitable for the planned economy has been gradually replaced by new ones in compliance with the market economy. This effort has expedited the pace of compliance with international practice and elevated the standardization of statistical work to a new level.

• With regard to statistical methods, the long-standing unitary method of statistical survey has been gradually replaced by a relatively scientific method system of statistical survey. A new survey system has been established, integrating censuses, sampling surveys, thorough surveys and other means.

• With regard to the building of a legal system, the long-standing situation of no applicable legislation has come to an end. Efforts have been made to bring statistical work within a legal framework. The Statistics Law of the People's Republic of China and the Detailed Rules concerning the Implementation of the Statistics Law have been promulgated.

• With regard to statistical technology, the previous backward means of information transmission and processing has been transformed. A basic framework of statistics- related modern technology has taken shape. A nationwide statistical information network is basically built and in operation. A network links the National Bureau of Statistics and statistical agencies in all provinces , autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the central government, as well as those in some prefectures and cities. Online transmission of statistical information is now possible.