Many statistical offices are or will be facing serious challenges in compiling statistics because of the spread of the Coronavirus. Gathering source data for primary statistics is more difficult or, in some cases, almost impossible. Many businesses producing or selling goods and services may have been closed and there may be restrictions on the movement of people. Some products may not be produced, or consumed, at all. information on prices and volumes of production and sales may be missing for a number of items. Other major sources, including administrative data sets may be delayed. Statistical models and assumptions should be adjusted. Further, the staff in many statistical offices may not be able or allowed to come to work or have been asked to telework. This imposes severe restrictions on the possibility to compile statistics on economic activity at usual quality and may make it difficult to adhere to release dates.

To assist countries in the production of some key statistics during the pandemic, this website includes:

• Brief introduction to general challenges on how to compile National Accounts and CPI
• Business continuity notes developed by international organizations to provide more detailed recommendations for continuing the compilation of certain key economic statistics
• Methodological guidance on the recording of support measures undertaken by governments in the context of COVID-19 developed by the Intersecretariat Working Group on National Accounts.
• An open forum for experts to share experience and good practices in the "Comments" field at the bottom of the page of each statistic.