I. Overall Assessment

1. Albania was among the first countries to participate in the General Data Dissemination System (GDDS), posting its metadata on the Dissemination Standards Bulletin Board (DSBB) on May 22, 2000. Its metadata have been used as a model by other countries participating in the GDDS. Albania meets all of the GDDS recommendations for coverage, periodicity, and timeliness, with the exception of the timeliness of national accounts statistics and the producer price index (PPI). In a number of data categories (consumer price index (CPI), general and central government operations, analytical accounts of the central bank, and balance of payments), the coverage, periodicity, and timeliness have reached the requirements of the Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS). Appendix I provides an overview of Albania’s dissemination practices compared to the GDDS.

2. Albania was also one of the first countries to participate in piloting the data module for the Report on the Observance of Standards and Codes (ROSC)—prepared in 1999 and posted on the IMF website in May 2000. This March 2006 ROSC is a reassessment based on the subsequently developed Data Quality Assessment Framework (DQAF), dating from July 2003, which is the IMF’s instrument for assessing national statistical systems. This data module (reassessment) ROSC contains the following main conclusions. Albania’s statistical system has made significant progress in adopting international statistical standards despite acute resource constraints. The statistical agencies covered in this report—the Institute of Statistics (INSTAT), the Ministry of Finance (MoF), and the Bank of Albania (BoA)—have availed themselves of substantial technical assistance and staff training provided by numerous donors, including the IMF. Albania’s official statistical agencies demonstrate strong and sustained commitment to pursuing plans and programs to further upgrade statistics in response to greater challenges posed by a rapidly evolving economy and the desire of the Albanian authorities to (i) subscribe to the SDDS; ii) adopt an inflation targeting regime; and iii) advance national aspirations to join the European Union. In several areas, Albania’s macroeconomic statistics are adequate to conduct effective surveillance. Exceptions are national accounts, initiated only in 2000, and to a certain extent balance of payments statistics.

3. Owing to severe resource constraints at INSTAT, the improvement in the national accounts has been slower relative to other datasets and has barely kept pace with the increasing data needs for policymaking. INSTAT generally has made effective use of its limited resources but needs adequate and sustained financing to develop and maintain a pool of qualified staff and to undertake data collection programs vital for the compilation of methodologically sound, accurate, and timely national accounts statistics.

4. In applying the IMF’s DQAF, the remainder of this section presents the mission’s main conclusions at the level of the DQAF’s quality dimensions, by agency for the first two dimensions and across datasets for the remaining four. Section II provides a summary assessment by agency and dataset based on a four-part scale. This is followed by staff recommendations in Section III. The authorities’ response to this report and a volume of detailed assessments are presented in separate documents.

5. Prerequisites of quality and Assurances of integrity. Institutional responsibility for the compilation and dissemination of the datasets covered in this report is clearly defined by the legal framework and established practices under which INSTAT, the MoF, and the BoA operate. These agencies—within their respective resource envelopes—endeavor to consult with data users and are active in organizing and/or participating in statistical meetings and seminars held in Albania and abroad. All agencies demonstrate notably high levels of data quality awareness, professionalism, transparency, and ethical standards.

• The legal framework for INSTAT as an independent government agency under the Council of Ministers has recently been strengthened with the adoption in 2004 of the Law On Official Statistics, which contains key elements of the United Nations’ Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics. The law redefines the role of the Statistics Council as INSTAT’s governing body; previously it only had an advisory function. The composition and selection of its members, and of the Director General of INSTAT, are specified in separate decisions of the Council of Ministers of 2005 and 2003, respectively. These provisions governed the recent appointments of the members of the Statistics Council and the new Director General for INSTAT. Weaknesses in data sharing and coordination are expected to be addressed with the signing of memorandums of understanding with other major data-producing agencies. Confidentiality of respondents’ data is protected in the law and in practice. INSTAT’s staff, working facilities, information technology, and financing resources are grossly inadequate to undertake its mandate. INSTAT encourages staff to focus on the efficient use of resources.

• The Organic Budget Law and the Guidelines on State Budget Performance clearly mandate the responsibility of the MoF for compiling and disseminating government finance statistics (GFS). These require compliance with reporting requirements and data confidentiality. Resources are inadequate to undertake current and planned statistical programs needed to improve monitoring of fiscal policy. The internal reorganization of functions at the MoF in November 2005 should be closely monitored to ensure that expected outputs and efficiencies in discharging duties are actually achieved.

• The BoA is, by tradition and by virtue of its authority to supervise the banking system, responsible for compiling and disseminating monetary statistics, although the BoA law does not specifically spell out this statistical mandate. The BoA has a statutory mandate for compiling balance of payments statistics, but effectiveness in this area is constrained because it has enforcement authority only over banks. Nonbank reporters of data are not subject to fines or other enforcement sanctions. Confidentiality of individual data is rigorously observed by the BoA in practice and through the BoA law, the Code of Ethics of the Bank of Albania, and the Regulation for Transparency and Confidentiality in the Bank of Albania. However, a provision in the BoA law (Article 58 (2)), stating that it may disclose individual reporters’ data to tax authorities, should be reviewed and clarified so as not to cast doubt among data reporters and users on the BoA’s strict adherence to data confidentiality. Staff resources are not adequate for balance of payments statistics. Staff resources for monetary statistics are adequate for current responsibilities but insufficient for the compilation of other financial statistics included in the BoA’s short-term plans for improvement. Additional resources are needed for information technology support and integrated database development to further enhance the efficiency of statistical processes at the BoA.

6. Methodological soundness. Albanian macroeconomic statistics follow internationally accepted standards and guidelines on concepts and definitions. Although a formal “migration path” to the GFSM 2001 has not been formally articulated, several coordinated technical actions at the MoF—including the design and implementation of an accrual-compatible database infrastructure—are well advanced. Improvements could be made in expanding the scope of national accounts statistics and of the CPI. All datasets use adequate classification and sectorization. The basis for recording is appropriate for the PPI and for the GFS vis-à-vis the Government Finance Statistics Manual 1986 (GFSM 1986), but international standards are not fully applied in the other datasets.

7. Accuracy and reliability. Except for monetary statistics, source data have shortcomings in the datasets; they are particularly weak for national accounts and balance of payments statistics, which rely on both administrative records and surveys. Assessment of source data for both the CPI and PPI, as well as monetary statistics, could be strengthened. Deficiencies in statistical techniques were observed in all datasets except GFS. The accuracy of estimates for national accounts is undermined by unusually weak assumptions and limited cross-checks of various data sources, which cast doubt on the plausibility of the revised national accounts data released in November 2005. Estimation of construction activity of the nonobserved economy is based too heavily on very narrow labor input source data without sufficient cross-checking with other data inputs on construction to assess reasonableness of the estimates. National accounts and PPI are not validated against other statistics, and errors have been overlooked in the data validation process for balance of payments. The CPI, GFS, and monetary statistics have sound procedures for the assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs. Revision studies for national accounts statistics should be developed further.

8. Serviceability. The periodicity and timeliness of disseminated statistics, except for national accounts and the PPI, meet GDDS recommendations. All datasets rated favorably in terms of consistency, except for national accounts, where the absence of independent estimates for the expenditure approach prevents consistency check with the production approach estimates. Information on the revision policy and practice for GFS should be made known to the public. The revision policy for national accounts should be consistently applied, and the status of the data clearly indicated on all releases.

9. Accessibility. All datasets, except for national accounts, are readily accessible—an observation that is confirmed by the results of a survey of users of Albanian statistics. Metadata accessibility for the CPI and PPI could be enhanced by the dissemination of updated methodological guides in Albanian and English. Users are not clearly informed on where and how to access the latest data on national accounts.

II. Assessment by Agency and Dataset

Assessments of the quality of six macroeconomic datasets—national accounts, CPI, PPI, government finance, monetary, and balance of payments statistics—were conducted using the DQAF. In this section, the results are presented at the level of the DQAF elements and using a four-point rating scale (Table 1). Assessments of the prerequisites of data quality and the assurances of integrity (Dimensions “0” and “1” of the DQAF) are presented in Tables 2a–c. For each dataset, the assessment of methodological soundness, accuracy and reliability, serviceability, and accessibility (Dimensions “2” to “5” of the DQAF) are shown in Tables 3a–f.

Table 1.

Albania: Data Quality Assessment Framework July 2003—Summary Results

Practice observed: current practices generally in observance meet or achieve the objectives of DQAF internationally accepted statistical practices without any significant deficiencies.Practice largely observed: some departures, but these are not seen as sufficient to raise doubts about the authorities’ ability to observe the DQAF practices. Practice largely not observed: significant departures and the authorities will need to take significant action to achieve observance. Practice not observed: most DQAF practices are not met. Not applicable: used only exceptionally when statistical practices do not apply to a country’s circumstances.

Table 1.

Albania: Data Quality Assessment Framework July 2003—Summary Results

Key to symbols: O = Practice Observed; LO = Practice Largely Observed; LNO = Practice Largely Not Observed; NO = Practice Not Observed; NA = Not Applicable
Datasets	National Accounts	Consumer Price Index	Producer Price Index	Government Finance Statistics	Monetary Statistics	Balance of Payments Statistics
Dimensions/Elements
0. Prerequisites of quality
0.1 Legal and institutional environment	LO	O	O	O	LO	LO
0.2 Resources	LNO	LNO	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO
0.3 Relevance	O	O	O	O	O	O
0.4 Other quality management	O	O	O	O	O	O
1. Assurances of integrity
1.1 Professionalism	O	O	O	O	O	O
1.2 Transparency	O	O	O	O	O	O
1.3 Ethical standards	O	O	O	O	O	O
2. Methodological soundness
2.1 Concepts and definitions	O	O	O	LO	O	O
2.2 Scope	LNO	LO	O	O	O	O
2.3 Classification/sectorization	O	O	O	O	O	O
2.4 Basis for recording	LO	LO	O	O	LO	LO
3. Accuracy and reliability
3.1 Source data	LNO	LO	LO	LO	O	LNO
3.2 Assessment of source data	O	LO	LO	O	LO	O
3.3 Statistical techniques	LNO	LO	LO	O	LO	LO
3.4 Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs	LO	O	LO	O	O	LO
3.5 Revision studies	LO	O	O	O	O	O
4. Serviceability
4.1 Periodicity and timeliness	LO	O	LO	O	O	O
4.2 Consistency	LO	O	O	O	O	O
4.3 Revision policy and practice	LO	O	O	LO	O	O
5. Accessibility
5.1 Data accessibility	LO	O	O	O	O	O
5.2 Metadata accessibility	O	LO	LO	O	O	O
5.3 Assistance to users	LO	O	O	O	O	O

Practice observed: current practices generally in observance meet or achieve the objectives of DQAF internationally accepted statistical practices without any significant deficiencies.Practice largely observed: some departures, but these are not seen as sufficient to raise doubts about the authorities’ ability to observe the DQAF practices. Practice largely not observed: significant departures and the authorities will need to take significant action to achieve observance. Practice not observed: most DQAF practices are not met. Not applicable: used only exceptionally when statistical practices do not apply to a country’s circumstances.

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Table 1.

Albania: Data Quality Assessment Framework July 2003—Summary Results

Key to symbols: O = Practice Observed; LO = Practice Largely Observed; LNO = Practice Largely Not Observed; NO = Practice Not Observed; NA = Not Applicable
Datasets	National Accounts	Consumer Price Index	Producer Price Index	Government Finance Statistics	Monetary Statistics	Balance of Payments Statistics
Dimensions/Elements
0. Prerequisites of quality
0.1 Legal and institutional environment	LO	O	O	O	LO	LO
0.2 Resources	LNO	LNO	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO
0.3 Relevance	O	O	O	O	O	O
0.4 Other quality management	O	O	O	O	O	O
1. Assurances of integrity
1.1 Professionalism	O	O	O	O	O	O
1.2 Transparency	O	O	O	O	O	O
1.3 Ethical standards	O	O	O	O	O	O
2. Methodological soundness
2.1 Concepts and definitions	O	O	O	LO	O	O
2.2 Scope	LNO	LO	O	O	O	O
2.3 Classification/sectorization	O	O	O	O	O	O
2.4 Basis for recording	LO	LO	O	O	LO	LO
3. Accuracy and reliability
3.1 Source data	LNO	LO	LO	LO	O	LNO
3.2 Assessment of source data	O	LO	LO	O	LO	O
3.3 Statistical techniques	LNO	LO	LO	O	LO	LO
3.4 Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs	LO	O	LO	O	O	LO
3.5 Revision studies	LO	O	O	O	O	O
4. Serviceability
4.1 Periodicity and timeliness	LO	O	LO	O	O	O
4.2 Consistency	LO	O	O	O	O	O
4.3 Revision policy and practice	LO	O	O	LO	O	O
5. Accessibility
5.1 Data accessibility	LO	O	O	O	O	O
5.2 Metadata accessibility	O	LO	LO	O	O	O
5.3 Assistance to users	LO	O	O	O	O	O

Practice observed: current practices generally in observance meet or achieve the objectives of DQAF internationally accepted statistical practices without any significant deficiencies.Practice largely observed: some departures, but these are not seen as sufficient to raise doubts about the authorities’ ability to observe the DQAF practices. Practice largely not observed: significant departures and the authorities will need to take significant action to achieve observance. Practice not observed: most DQAF practices are not met. Not applicable: used only exceptionally when statistical practices do not apply to a country’s circumstances.

Table 2a.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Institute of Statistics

Table 2a.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Institute of Statistics

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment Data sharing arrangements among agencies for compiling national accounts have weaknesses. The Law On Official Statistics (Law), No. 9180 of 2004, gives INSTAT clear responsibility for the collection, compilation, and dissemination of official statistics. The Law states that respondents’ data should be kept confidential, which INSTAT closely adheres to. The Law also establishes the responsibilities of respondents to submit data to INSTAT. Resources INSTAT does not have the necessary resources to fully carry out its work program. Too few staff are assigned to national accounts, and the CPI and PPI have only one professional each working on them. Staff are well qualified, but turnover is a problem because compensation is at the lowest level of the civil service salary structure. Computing facilities are adequate, but INSTAT has staffing constraints and technical difficulties in loading data products, particularly for national accounts, onto its website. Staff also have to cope with restricted office space. The Law requires that official statistics be produced in a cost-effective manner, which INSTAT endeavors to adhere to in its internal operations and in cooperation with other agencies. Staff are subject to a formal annual performance review. INSTAT is active in seeking outside expert assistance to improve its methodologies and compilation systems. Relevance INSTAT monitors users’ needs through seminars and surveys. Staff avail themselves of opportunities to participate in international meetings, which promote awareness of users’ needs. Other quality management INSTAT has a clear mission and is sensitive to all aspects of quality. The Statistics Council, comprised of public and private sector representatives, supervises the operations of INSTAT. Staff undertake regular assessments of the work program.

Professionalism The professionalism and impartiality of official statistics are stipulated in the Law. It specifically establishes that there should be no interference from the government or any other body. The Law describes the roles and responsibilities of the Statistics Council and the Director General of INSTAT. The Statistics Council can propose the appointment and dismissal of the Director General, but this has to be approved by the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. Staff are subject to the rules and regulations in the Law on the Status of Civil Servants. Hiring of staff is through open competition and is based on qualifications. INSTAT promotes professionalism, encouraging staff participation in courses and research activities. Choices of data, techniques, and dissemination are solely based on statistical considerations. Government has no internal access to the statistics prior to their release. Staff are entitled to respond to erroneous interpretation and misuse of statistics. INSTAT organizes seminars and briefings to aid understanding of the statistics by data users. Transparency INSTAT posts the Law on its website. Questionnaires state the terms and conditions of the data collection and compilation, as well as the respondents’ obligations. There is no access to the data prior to public release. All publications are clearly identified with INSTAT’s name and logo. INSTAT provides advance notice of major changes in methodology, source data, and statistical techniques. It provides more detailed information when the change is introduced. Ethical standards Staff behavior is governed by the Law on the Status of Civil Servants. Further, INSTAT has its own Code of Conduct for its staff. All new staff attend an orientation program where they are informed of the ethical standards and professional culture of INSTAT.

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Table 2a.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Institute of Statistics

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment Data sharing arrangements among agencies for compiling national accounts have weaknesses. The Law On Official Statistics (Law), No. 9180 of 2004, gives INSTAT clear responsibility for the collection, compilation, and dissemination of official statistics. The Law states that respondents’ data should be kept confidential, which INSTAT closely adheres to. The Law also establishes the responsibilities of respondents to submit data to INSTAT. Resources INSTAT does not have the necessary resources to fully carry out its work program. Too few staff are assigned to national accounts, and the CPI and PPI have only one professional each working on them. Staff are well qualified, but turnover is a problem because compensation is at the lowest level of the civil service salary structure. Computing facilities are adequate, but INSTAT has staffing constraints and technical difficulties in loading data products, particularly for national accounts, onto its website. Staff also have to cope with restricted office space. The Law requires that official statistics be produced in a cost-effective manner, which INSTAT endeavors to adhere to in its internal operations and in cooperation with other agencies. Staff are subject to a formal annual performance review. INSTAT is active in seeking outside expert assistance to improve its methodologies and compilation systems. Relevance INSTAT monitors users’ needs through seminars and surveys. Staff avail themselves of opportunities to participate in international meetings, which promote awareness of users’ needs. Other quality management INSTAT has a clear mission and is sensitive to all aspects of quality. The Statistics Council, comprised of public and private sector representatives, supervises the operations of INSTAT. Staff undertake regular assessments of the work program.

Professionalism The professionalism and impartiality of official statistics are stipulated in the Law. It specifically establishes that there should be no interference from the government or any other body. The Law describes the roles and responsibilities of the Statistics Council and the Director General of INSTAT. The Statistics Council can propose the appointment and dismissal of the Director General, but this has to be approved by the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. Staff are subject to the rules and regulations in the Law on the Status of Civil Servants. Hiring of staff is through open competition and is based on qualifications. INSTAT promotes professionalism, encouraging staff participation in courses and research activities. Choices of data, techniques, and dissemination are solely based on statistical considerations. Government has no internal access to the statistics prior to their release. Staff are entitled to respond to erroneous interpretation and misuse of statistics. INSTAT organizes seminars and briefings to aid understanding of the statistics by data users. Transparency INSTAT posts the Law on its website. Questionnaires state the terms and conditions of the data collection and compilation, as well as the respondents’ obligations. There is no access to the data prior to public release. All publications are clearly identified with INSTAT’s name and logo. INSTAT provides advance notice of major changes in methodology, source data, and statistical techniques. It provides more detailed information when the change is introduced. Ethical standards Staff behavior is governed by the Law on the Status of Civil Servants. Further, INSTAT has its own Code of Conduct for its staff. All new staff attend an orientation program where they are informed of the ethical standards and professional culture of INSTAT.

Table 2b.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Ministry of Finance

Table 2b.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Ministry of Finance

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment The Macroeconomic Department in the MoF is specifically designated to compile GFS and to produce monthly and quarterly bulletins on fiscal statistics. The Organic Budget Law (OBL) No. 8379 of July 29, 1998 authorizes the Minister of Finance to specify accounting procedures and reporting requirements for budgetary institutions, special and extrabudgetary funds, and local government. The OBL also requires the Minister to prepare annually a final statement of accounts to be presented to the Council of Ministers and the Parliament. A presentation on the government debt (foreign and domestic) situation twice a year is also required. The flow of budget execution data to the MoF is well established in the OBL, the Guideline on State Budget Performance for Fiscal Year, and other directives. Resources Existing staff resources are inadequate for current GFS compilation demands and do not allow capacity for additional development work. Although good coordination exists across departments, only one staff is charged with compiling the statistics and furthering methodological development. Relevance Officials manifest a keen awareness of the need for ongoing quality improvements in fiscal data. Queries received are instrumental in improving the content (tables and charts) of the MoF’s statistical publications, most recently reflected in the expanded presentation in Fiscal Statistics of Government. The monthly publication Economy and Budget includes a short analysis of major fiscal and other macroeconomic developments during the period under review. Other quality management Compilers follow well-established procedures to check the accuracy and consistency of the data. Reporting requirements, accounting systems, and audit rules generally ensure quality. As part of his mandate, the Deputy Minister regularly meets with the heads of all district treasury offices and government spending units to discuss and clarify data reporting issues that may arise in the implementation of the OBL.

Professionalism The OBL provides autonomy in carrying out budgetary, accounting, and GFS functions. It also gives the MoF independence to choose sources and methods, which are made as part of agency-wide decisions taking into account costs and resources. The MoF publishes substantial information on statistical techniques on its website. There is no evidence of political influence affecting compilation methods or data output. Staff are aware of their responsibility to maintain the integrity of the data. The MoF regularly monitors the coverage of its data in the media. The Spokesperson for the Minister comments on erroneous interpretations and misuse of official statistics when deemed necessary. Transparency The terms and conditions under which GFS are compiled and disseminated are embedded in the OBL and the internal administrative regulations of the MoF, available on the MoF website. There is no internal government access to the data before they are released to the public. MoF officials do not typically provide commentary on the data. To ensure widespread awareness of current and future initiatives relating to the adoption of a medium-term budget framework in Albania, the MoF has invited members of the media to attend (and report on) meetings where changes in methodology, source data, and statistical techniques are discussed. Ethical standards Staff behavior is guided by the rules, regulations, and administrative procedures of the Law on the Status of Civil Servants, the related Ethical Code, and internal guidance, which are made known to the staff. Specific questions related to the law and code are included in the public examinations all candidates for employment must take. Newly recruited staff attend mandatory training at the Public Administration Training Center. Staff are reminded of ethical standards during annual performance reviews.

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Table 2b.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Ministry of Finance

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment The Macroeconomic Department in the MoF is specifically designated to compile GFS and to produce monthly and quarterly bulletins on fiscal statistics. The Organic Budget Law (OBL) No. 8379 of July 29, 1998 authorizes the Minister of Finance to specify accounting procedures and reporting requirements for budgetary institutions, special and extrabudgetary funds, and local government. The OBL also requires the Minister to prepare annually a final statement of accounts to be presented to the Council of Ministers and the Parliament. A presentation on the government debt (foreign and domestic) situation twice a year is also required. The flow of budget execution data to the MoF is well established in the OBL, the Guideline on State Budget Performance for Fiscal Year, and other directives. Resources Existing staff resources are inadequate for current GFS compilation demands and do not allow capacity for additional development work. Although good coordination exists across departments, only one staff is charged with compiling the statistics and furthering methodological development. Relevance Officials manifest a keen awareness of the need for ongoing quality improvements in fiscal data. Queries received are instrumental in improving the content (tables and charts) of the MoF’s statistical publications, most recently reflected in the expanded presentation in Fiscal Statistics of Government. The monthly publication Economy and Budget includes a short analysis of major fiscal and other macroeconomic developments during the period under review. Other quality management Compilers follow well-established procedures to check the accuracy and consistency of the data. Reporting requirements, accounting systems, and audit rules generally ensure quality. As part of his mandate, the Deputy Minister regularly meets with the heads of all district treasury offices and government spending units to discuss and clarify data reporting issues that may arise in the implementation of the OBL.

Professionalism The OBL provides autonomy in carrying out budgetary, accounting, and GFS functions. It also gives the MoF independence to choose sources and methods, which are made as part of agency-wide decisions taking into account costs and resources. The MoF publishes substantial information on statistical techniques on its website. There is no evidence of political influence affecting compilation methods or data output. Staff are aware of their responsibility to maintain the integrity of the data. The MoF regularly monitors the coverage of its data in the media. The Spokesperson for the Minister comments on erroneous interpretations and misuse of official statistics when deemed necessary. Transparency The terms and conditions under which GFS are compiled and disseminated are embedded in the OBL and the internal administrative regulations of the MoF, available on the MoF website. There is no internal government access to the data before they are released to the public. MoF officials do not typically provide commentary on the data. To ensure widespread awareness of current and future initiatives relating to the adoption of a medium-term budget framework in Albania, the MoF has invited members of the media to attend (and report on) meetings where changes in methodology, source data, and statistical techniques are discussed. Ethical standards Staff behavior is guided by the rules, regulations, and administrative procedures of the Law on the Status of Civil Servants, the related Ethical Code, and internal guidance, which are made known to the staff. Specific questions related to the law and code are included in the public examinations all candidates for employment must take. Newly recruited staff attend mandatory training at the Public Administration Training Center. Staff are reminded of ethical standards during annual performance reviews.

Table 2c.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Bank of Albania

Table 2c.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Bank of Albania

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment The BoA, by tradition, is responsible for compiling and disseminating monetary statistics, although the BoA’s law On the Bank of Albania (Law) does not specifically confer this mandate. No other agencies are involved in the compilation of monetary statistics in Albania. The Law specifically assigns responsibility for balance of payments statistics compilation to the BoA. A Statistics Department was established in 2005, an indication of the importance attached by the BoA to statistics. The Law provides that the BoA can request data from banks, juridical, and physical persons but does not provide a tool to enforce compliance by nonbank reporters. Data confidentiality is rigorously observed in practice by the BoA. However, the Law might be interpreted as not providing the legal assurance that these data would only be used for statistical purposes as individual records may be disclosed to tax authorities. The BoA does not have an electronic (online) reporting system for banks and other financial institutions that could increase efficiency of the monetary and balance of payments statistics compilation processes. The BoA has established procedures for sharing data with INSTAT and the MoF, which will be further strengthened by the signing of a memorandum of understanding with INSTAT to formalize data sharing agreements. Resources Additional staff resources and funding (for surveys subcontracted to INSTAT) are needed for balance of payments and other external statistics such as the International Investment Position. More resources are also needed in the Information Technology Department for upgrading the database and implementing an electronic (online) reporting system for banks and other financial institutions. Staff resources suffice for current compilation of monetary statistics, but more resources are needed if the BoA is to compile a financial corporations survey and flow data. Facilities could be improved to allow for adequate staff space. Relevance The BoA strives to improve the country’s monetary and balance of payments statistics to meet users’ needs. Staff participate in statistical meetings organized by international organizations and are active in exchanging views related to monetary and external statistics with other countries in the region. Consultation with data users is undertaken. Other quality management The BoA’s activities are governed by the principle “quality creates confidence.” The BoA considers comments and requests from external data users as important feedback for monitoring the quality of monetary and balance of payments statistics.

Professionalism The Law ensures the independence of the BoA. The BoA defines its own methodological procedures for compiling and disseminating monetary and balance of payments statistics, taking into account international standards. Professional competence plays a key role in recruitment and promotion. Training and professional development opportunities are provided. Choices of statistical methodology are based solely on statistical considerations. The BoA comments on public misuse of statistics. Moreover, to avoid misuse or incorrect interpretation of monetary and balance of payments statistics, the BoA is active in developing a “culture of statistics” and has a training program for the media. Transparency The legal terms and conditions for compiling monetary and external statistics are made available to the public. These terms and conditions are summarized on the BoA’s website. Access to statistics is provided simultaneously to all users when the data are posted on the BoA’s website. Monetary and balance of payments statistics are clearly identified as BoA products. When the BoA publishes data produced by other agencies or posts them on its website, it clearly indicates the source. Advance notice of major changes in methodology, source data, or statistical techniques is given to the public. Ethical standards Ethical standards of official behavior for the BoA staff are established by the Code of Ethics of the Bank of Albania. These guidelines establish the main principles and rules for staff integrity, objectivity, professional competence, efficiency, professional independence, maintaining confidentiality of data, and avoiding conflicts of interest.

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Table 2c.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Bank of Albania

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment The BoA, by tradition, is responsible for compiling and disseminating monetary statistics, although the BoA’s law On the Bank of Albania (Law) does not specifically confer this mandate. No other agencies are involved in the compilation of monetary statistics in Albania. The Law specifically assigns responsibility for balance of payments statistics compilation to the BoA. A Statistics Department was established in 2005, an indication of the importance attached by the BoA to statistics. The Law provides that the BoA can request data from banks, juridical, and physical persons but does not provide a tool to enforce compliance by nonbank reporters. Data confidentiality is rigorously observed in practice by the BoA. However, the Law might be interpreted as not providing the legal assurance that these data would only be used for statistical purposes as individual records may be disclosed to tax authorities. The BoA does not have an electronic (online) reporting system for banks and other financial institutions that could increase efficiency of the monetary and balance of payments statistics compilation processes. The BoA has established procedures for sharing data with INSTAT and the MoF, which will be further strengthened by the signing of a memorandum of understanding with INSTAT to formalize data sharing agreements. Resources Additional staff resources and funding (for surveys subcontracted to INSTAT) are needed for balance of payments and other external statistics such as the International Investment Position. More resources are also needed in the Information Technology Department for upgrading the database and implementing an electronic (online) reporting system for banks and other financial institutions. Staff resources suffice for current compilation of monetary statistics, but more resources are needed if the BoA is to compile a financial corporations survey and flow data. Facilities could be improved to allow for adequate staff space. Relevance The BoA strives to improve the country’s monetary and balance of payments statistics to meet users’ needs. Staff participate in statistical meetings organized by international organizations and are active in exchanging views related to monetary and external statistics with other countries in the region. Consultation with data users is undertaken. Other quality management The BoA’s activities are governed by the principle “quality creates confidence.” The BoA considers comments and requests from external data users as important feedback for monitoring the quality of monetary and balance of payments statistics.

Professionalism The Law ensures the independence of the BoA. The BoA defines its own methodological procedures for compiling and disseminating monetary and balance of payments statistics, taking into account international standards. Professional competence plays a key role in recruitment and promotion. Training and professional development opportunities are provided. Choices of statistical methodology are based solely on statistical considerations. The BoA comments on public misuse of statistics. Moreover, to avoid misuse or incorrect interpretation of monetary and balance of payments statistics, the BoA is active in developing a “culture of statistics” and has a training program for the media. Transparency The legal terms and conditions for compiling monetary and external statistics are made available to the public. These terms and conditions are summarized on the BoA’s website. Access to statistics is provided simultaneously to all users when the data are posted on the BoA’s website. Monetary and balance of payments statistics are clearly identified as BoA products. When the BoA publishes data produced by other agencies or posts them on its website, it clearly indicates the source. Advance notice of major changes in methodology, source data, or statistical techniques is given to the public. Ethical standards Ethical standards of official behavior for the BoA staff are established by the Code of Ethics of the Bank of Albania. These guidelines establish the main principles and rules for staff integrity, objectivity, professional competence, efficiency, professional independence, maintaining confidentiality of data, and avoiding conflicts of interest.

Table 3a.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—National Accounts

Table 3a.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—National Accounts

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions The national accounts statistics are in conformity with the System of National Accounts 1993 (1993 SNA). Scope The National Accounts Section (NAS) of INSTAT does not produce all of the accounts needed to meet the minimum requirement set by the Intersecretariat Working Group on National Accounts. The tables and accounts produced are (1) annual value added and GDP at current and constant prices and (2) annual expenditures of GDP at current and constant prices. A plan is in place to expand compilation to cover the other required accounts. Classification/sectorization Classifications conform to international standards—activities by NACE Rev. 1, products by CPA, individual consumption by COICOP, and government accounts by COFOG. Basis for recording Market prices are used to value flows and stocks, with some exceptions. Nondeductible VAT is excluded in the valuation of intermediate consumption, which is not in accordance with the 1993 SNA. There are no adjustments for holding gains/losses. Government accounts are not on an accrual basis. All enterprise data are on a net basis.	Source data The national accounts are compiled from numerous but insufficient source data. Source data are hampered by poor questionnaire design (e.g., Structural Business Survey), limited area coverage of the Household Budget Survey (HBS), and insufficient frequency of surveys. Source data do not provide sufficient estimates of the nonobserved economy. Unit value indices are of poor quality. Source data are not timely. The statistical business register is of good quality. Assessment of source data Source data are adequately assessed for coverage, sampling, and nonsampling errors. Results from the assessment are used to improve source data. Imputation and adjustment for nonresponse are based on appropriate techniques. Statistical techniques Estimates of production from nonobserved activities, especially for construction, are based on too limited labor input data and productivity assumption. Estimates of expenditure components rely on unusually weak assumptions, are not crosschecked against other data sources, and are based on a benchmark that is too limited. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs Adjustments to remove discrepancies are not sufficiently detailed. Some information is used to validate intermediate results (e.g., Living Standard Measurement Survey). Supply and use tables are being developed. Revision studies Revision studies are done on an ad hoc basis only and normally in connection with a major change in methodology.	Periodicity and timeliness The national accounts meet the GDDS recommendation on periodicity, but not on timeliness. That is, preliminary estimates for GDP are released 11 months after the reference year, exceeding the 9-month recommendation. Consistency National accounts from the production approach are not independently estimated but made consistent with the expenditure approach through balancing items on the expenditure side. National accounts statistics are consistent with balance of payments, monetary, and fiscal statistics. Revision policy and practice Not all publications have an indication of data status (i.e., preliminary, revised, or final). Revised data are accompanied by analysis when major changes in methodology take place. At the time of the mission, INSTAT posted a revision policy on its website.	Data accessibility Dissemination media (publications and website) are fragmented. The actual release of national accounts does not strictly follow the advance release calendar. The statistics are presented in a way that facilitates interpretation and comparisons (layout and clarity of text, tables, and charts). More detailed breakdowns are provided on request. Metadata accessibility INSTAT disseminates various documents related to national accounts on concepts, scope, classifications, basis of recording, data sources, and statistical techniques—in hard copy and on the website. Summary information is provided in the GDDS metadata, updated at least once a year. Assistance to users Information on the website about INSTAT’s publications is not up-to-date. All INSTAT publications provide contact information. INSTAT’s website contains extensive catalogs of publications, documents, and survey results.

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Table 3a.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—National Accounts

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions The national accounts statistics are in conformity with the System of National Accounts 1993 (1993 SNA). Scope The National Accounts Section (NAS) of INSTAT does not produce all of the accounts needed to meet the minimum requirement set by the Intersecretariat Working Group on National Accounts. The tables and accounts produced are (1) annual value added and GDP at current and constant prices and (2) annual expenditures of GDP at current and constant prices. A plan is in place to expand compilation to cover the other required accounts. Classification/sectorization Classifications conform to international standards—activities by NACE Rev. 1, products by CPA, individual consumption by COICOP, and government accounts by COFOG. Basis for recording Market prices are used to value flows and stocks, with some exceptions. Nondeductible VAT is excluded in the valuation of intermediate consumption, which is not in accordance with the 1993 SNA. There are no adjustments for holding gains/losses. Government accounts are not on an accrual basis. All enterprise data are on a net basis.	Source data The national accounts are compiled from numerous but insufficient source data. Source data are hampered by poor questionnaire design (e.g., Structural Business Survey), limited area coverage of the Household Budget Survey (HBS), and insufficient frequency of surveys. Source data do not provide sufficient estimates of the nonobserved economy. Unit value indices are of poor quality. Source data are not timely. The statistical business register is of good quality. Assessment of source data Source data are adequately assessed for coverage, sampling, and nonsampling errors. Results from the assessment are used to improve source data. Imputation and adjustment for nonresponse are based on appropriate techniques. Statistical techniques Estimates of production from nonobserved activities, especially for construction, are based on too limited labor input data and productivity assumption. Estimates of expenditure components rely on unusually weak assumptions, are not crosschecked against other data sources, and are based on a benchmark that is too limited. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs Adjustments to remove discrepancies are not sufficiently detailed. Some information is used to validate intermediate results (e.g., Living Standard Measurement Survey). Supply and use tables are being developed. Revision studies Revision studies are done on an ad hoc basis only and normally in connection with a major change in methodology.	Periodicity and timeliness The national accounts meet the GDDS recommendation on periodicity, but not on timeliness. That is, preliminary estimates for GDP are released 11 months after the reference year, exceeding the 9-month recommendation. Consistency National accounts from the production approach are not independently estimated but made consistent with the expenditure approach through balancing items on the expenditure side. National accounts statistics are consistent with balance of payments, monetary, and fiscal statistics. Revision policy and practice Not all publications have an indication of data status (i.e., preliminary, revised, or final). Revised data are accompanied by analysis when major changes in methodology take place. At the time of the mission, INSTAT posted a revision policy on its website.	Data accessibility Dissemination media (publications and website) are fragmented. The actual release of national accounts does not strictly follow the advance release calendar. The statistics are presented in a way that facilitates interpretation and comparisons (layout and clarity of text, tables, and charts). More detailed breakdowns are provided on request. Metadata accessibility INSTAT disseminates various documents related to national accounts on concepts, scope, classifications, basis of recording, data sources, and statistical techniques—in hard copy and on the website. Summary information is provided in the GDDS metadata, updated at least once a year. Assistance to users Information on the website about INSTAT’s publications is not up-to-date. All INSTAT publications provide contact information. INSTAT’s website contains extensive catalogs of publications, documents, and survey results.

Table 3b.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Consumer Price Index

Table 3b.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Consumer Price Index

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions In general, the weights and price quotes used to compile the CPI are consistent with the 1993 SNA and the Consumer Price Index Manual. Scope The CPI weights are derived from the 2000 HBS, which only covered urban households, accounting for 45 percent of all households. In all other respects, the 2000 HBS was consistent with internationally accepted standards. Classification/sectorization Households are defined according to the 1993 SNA, as are their transactions. COICOP is used to classify the CPI. Basis for recording The 2000 HBS did not collect data on the sale of second-hand goods. Therefore, only the purchase value of such items is included in the CPI weights. The CPI weights are based on household expenditure at purchaser prices. Prices are recorded in the period goods and services are purchased.	Source data The sampling methodology for the HBS followed international best practice, but no attempt was made to replace non-respondents. Price collection is from all types of outlets, and product specification is as precise as possible. Data on prices are reported on a timely basis. Assessment of source data Price data are checked for outliers, but no checks are made on enumerators. Statistical techniques The current weights are for 2000, which is too long ago, considering the major economic changes since then. Temporary missing prices are imputed using a good methodology, which is also used for seasonally unavailable goods. Permanently unavailable items are replaced with similar products. New items are only introduced when the CPI is rebased. The weights include an estimate for imputed rent. Appropriate methodologies are used to derive the indices. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs The prices data are checked against all other available sources (e.g., PPI). Any unusual values are investigated and amended, if necessary. Revision studies Revisions occur when the CPI is rebased. The revisions were fully assessed at the time of the last rebasing.	Periodicity and timeliness The CPI is compiled monthly, in line with the GDDS recommendation. It is published within nine days of the end of the reference period, well within the GDDS recommendation of one month. Consistency The CPI is fully consistent from 1993 onwards, with appropriate techniques used to link the series when they are rebased. Revision policy and practice Revisions are only made to the CPI when it is rebased. The assessment of the revisions resulting from the last rebasing was published.	Data accessibility The layout of the publications is good, with charts as well as tables. On the website, the data values are available in downloadable Excel spreadsheets. An advance release calendar is published at the beginning of the year, giving precise publication dates for the whole year. The publications are made available to all users at the same time. More detailed breakdowns are provided on request. Metadata accessibility The methodological guide that was published at the time of the last rebasing has not been kept up to date and neither has it been translated into Albanian. A brief description is included in INSTAT’s Yearbook. Assistance to users The publications give a general contact point for INSTAT, which provides an acceptable service to users. A catalog of publications is on INSTAT’s website.

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Table 3b.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Consumer Price Index

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions In general, the weights and price quotes used to compile the CPI are consistent with the 1993 SNA and the Consumer Price Index Manual. Scope The CPI weights are derived from the 2000 HBS, which only covered urban households, accounting for 45 percent of all households. In all other respects, the 2000 HBS was consistent with internationally accepted standards. Classification/sectorization Households are defined according to the 1993 SNA, as are their transactions. COICOP is used to classify the CPI. Basis for recording The 2000 HBS did not collect data on the sale of second-hand goods. Therefore, only the purchase value of such items is included in the CPI weights. The CPI weights are based on household expenditure at purchaser prices. Prices are recorded in the period goods and services are purchased.	Source data The sampling methodology for the HBS followed international best practice, but no attempt was made to replace non-respondents. Price collection is from all types of outlets, and product specification is as precise as possible. Data on prices are reported on a timely basis. Assessment of source data Price data are checked for outliers, but no checks are made on enumerators. Statistical techniques The current weights are for 2000, which is too long ago, considering the major economic changes since then. Temporary missing prices are imputed using a good methodology, which is also used for seasonally unavailable goods. Permanently unavailable items are replaced with similar products. New items are only introduced when the CPI is rebased. The weights include an estimate for imputed rent. Appropriate methodologies are used to derive the indices. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs The prices data are checked against all other available sources (e.g., PPI). Any unusual values are investigated and amended, if necessary. Revision studies Revisions occur when the CPI is rebased. The revisions were fully assessed at the time of the last rebasing.	Periodicity and timeliness The CPI is compiled monthly, in line with the GDDS recommendation. It is published within nine days of the end of the reference period, well within the GDDS recommendation of one month. Consistency The CPI is fully consistent from 1993 onwards, with appropriate techniques used to link the series when they are rebased. Revision policy and practice Revisions are only made to the CPI when it is rebased. The assessment of the revisions resulting from the last rebasing was published.	Data accessibility The layout of the publications is good, with charts as well as tables. On the website, the data values are available in downloadable Excel spreadsheets. An advance release calendar is published at the beginning of the year, giving precise publication dates for the whole year. The publications are made available to all users at the same time. More detailed breakdowns are provided on request. Metadata accessibility The methodological guide that was published at the time of the last rebasing has not been kept up to date and neither has it been translated into Albanian. A brief description is included in INSTAT’s Yearbook. Assistance to users The publications give a general contact point for INSTAT, which provides an acceptable service to users. A catalog of publications is on INSTAT’s website.

Table 3c.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Producer Price Index

Table 3c.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Producer Price Index

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions The PPI follows the concepts of the 1993 SNA and the Producer Price Manual. Scope The PPI covers all production industries, that is, mining, manufacturing, energy, and water supply. Classification/sectorization The industrial classification used is NACE Rev. 1 down to the class (4-digit) level. Basis for recording Market prices are used for the weights and the price quotes.	Source data Prices are collected for each month, but only once a quarter, due to financial constraints. The weights were derived from the 1998 annual Structural Business Survey. This survey was also used to select the enterprises from which prices are collected. When one of these enterprises goes out of business, it is not replaced by another similar-sized firm. Assessment of source data Price data are checked for outliers, but no checks are done on enumerators. Statistical techniques Missing prices are imputed using the average price for the same, or related, products, rather than the monthly change in this average. When an enterprise stops producing an item, that item is not replaced. New products are introduced when they become significant. Weights are used at all levels of aggregation, even within individual enterprises. The base year of 1998 needs to be updated. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs The prices are not validated against other sources, such as the CPI. Unusual movements in the PPI components are investigated. Revision studies The PPI is not subject to monthly revisions. It has yet to be rebased, because such a revision study has not been necessary.	Periodicity and timeliness The PPI is compiled monthly, in line with the GDDS recommendation. However, the monthly figures are only published within nine weeks of the end of the quarter. As a result, the index for the first month of each quarter is not published until more than four months after the end of the reference period, which does not meet the . timeliness (one to two months) recommended in the GDDS. Consistency The PPI is fully consistent overtime since 1998. The PPI is consistent with the CPI and with the national accounts, as it is used to deflate the production figures. Revision policy and practice The PPI is never revised.	Data accessibility The layout of the publications is good, with charts as well as tables. On the website, the data values are available in downloadable Excel spreadsheets. An advance release calendar is published at the beginning of the year, giving precise publication dates for the whole year. The publications are made available to all users at the same time. More detailed breakdowns are provided on request, as long as they do not breach the confidentiality rules. Metadata accessibility The methodological guide, published when the PPI was first developed, has not been kept up to date and neither has it been translated into Albanian. A brief description is included in INSTAT’s Yearbook. Assistance to users The publications give a general contact point for INSTAT, which provides an acceptable service to users. A catalog of publications is on INSTAT’s website.

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Table 3c.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Producer Price Index

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions The PPI follows the concepts of the 1993 SNA and the Producer Price Manual. Scope The PPI covers all production industries, that is, mining, manufacturing, energy, and water supply. Classification/sectorization The industrial classification used is NACE Rev. 1 down to the class (4-digit) level. Basis for recording Market prices are used for the weights and the price quotes.	Source data Prices are collected for each month, but only once a quarter, due to financial constraints. The weights were derived from the 1998 annual Structural Business Survey. This survey was also used to select the enterprises from which prices are collected. When one of these enterprises goes out of business, it is not replaced by another similar-sized firm. Assessment of source data Price data are checked for outliers, but no checks are done on enumerators. Statistical techniques Missing prices are imputed using the average price for the same, or related, products, rather than the monthly change in this average. When an enterprise stops producing an item, that item is not replaced. New products are introduced when they become significant. Weights are used at all levels of aggregation, even within individual enterprises. The base year of 1998 needs to be updated. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs The prices are not validated against other sources, such as the CPI. Unusual movements in the PPI components are investigated. Revision studies The PPI is not subject to monthly revisions. It has yet to be rebased, because such a revision study has not been necessary.	Periodicity and timeliness The PPI is compiled monthly, in line with the GDDS recommendation. However, the monthly figures are only published within nine weeks of the end of the quarter. As a result, the index for the first month of each quarter is not published until more than four months after the end of the reference period, which does not meet the . timeliness (one to two months) recommended in the GDDS. Consistency The PPI is fully consistent overtime since 1998. The PPI is consistent with the CPI and with the national accounts, as it is used to deflate the production figures. Revision policy and practice The PPI is never revised.	Data accessibility The layout of the publications is good, with charts as well as tables. On the website, the data values are available in downloadable Excel spreadsheets. An advance release calendar is published at the beginning of the year, giving precise publication dates for the whole year. The publications are made available to all users at the same time. More detailed breakdowns are provided on request, as long as they do not breach the confidentiality rules. Metadata accessibility The methodological guide, published when the PPI was first developed, has not been kept up to date and neither has it been translated into Albanian. A brief description is included in INSTAT’s Yearbook. Assistance to users The publications give a general contact point for INSTAT, which provides an acceptable service to users. A catalog of publications is on INSTAT’s website.

Table 3d.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Government Finance Statistics

Table 3d.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Government Finance Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions A formal migration path from the current presentation to the GFSM 2001 framework has not been articulated. Fiscal accounts are largely based on the methodology prescribed in the GFSM 1986, although divergences exist in the presentation of data. The distinction between domestic and foreign financing and debt is adequately based on the residency criteria of the BPM5. Scope The scope of the general government sector is in line with the GFSM 1986 and encompasses budgetary central government, (representing a total of about 1,520 individual budget institutions), local government (representing a total of about 2,160 units), and two extrabudgetary funds (the social security fund and the health insurance fund). Classification/sectorization Classifications are broadly in accordance with the GFSM 1986. The economic classification of expense and the inclusion of privatization receipts under financing (rather than under net lending minus repayments)—more closely approximate the GFSM 2001 framework. A functional classification of expenditure is available. Basis for recording Transactions are recorded on a cash basis as provided for in the GFSM 1986. Debt is recorded at face value, and amounts denominated in foreign currency are converted to leks at the official daily exchange rates provided by the BoA.	Source data The weakness in source data is in the availability of data on certain external donor financed (grants) projects that do not pass through the treasury system. The main data sources, which are timely, are reports of i) district treasury offices; ii) the Debt Management and Financial Analysis System; iii) project implementation units for foreign financed project; and iv) the extrabudgetary funds. Assessment of source data Detailed procedures are used—payment orders are checked against financing plans submitted; internal controls are applied within and between reports; and cross-checks are made between the Treasury balance and other balances. Results are monitored to guide internal planning. Statistical techniques Extensive use of administrative sources eliminates the need for estimations, surveys, and imputation. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs Transactions in each spending unit are reconciled with the change in balances on the relevant bank accounts, the records of the tax administration office, and the records of the Debt Office of the MoF, as relevant. Revision studies Discrepancies requiring revisions are documented in an internal memorandum prepared by the Budget and Treasury Directorates and sent to the Minister on a monthly basis for follow-up, if needed.	Periodicity and timeliness Periodicity and timeliness exceed the GDDS recommendations. Consistency Data are internally consistent. An interagency committee works to check consistency with the BoA’s monetary and balance of payments statistics and with INSTAT’s national accounts statistics. Revision policy and practice Owing to the long-term application of the GFSM 1986-based methodology, no advance notice of major changes in methodology occurs. Revisions follow a regular schedule but are not made publicly available. Technical descriptions of changes appear as footnotes in the quarterly bulletin Fiscal Statistics of Government.	Data accessibility An advance release calendar exists. Detailed tables (in Albanian and English) are disseminated in Fiscal Statistics of Government, which contains information on the final budget outcome in the June issue. Preliminary annual data are disseminated in the December issue of the monthly publication Economy and Budget, which is released (in Albanian) in February (i.e., with a two-month lag). In addition, the monthly Economy in Focus describes trends in public finance. These are available free of charge and on the MoF website. Metadata accessibility GFS metadata are available on the MoF website, in the quarterly bulletin, and on the IMF’s DSBB. Assistance to users Contact information is available in all MoF publications and on the IMF’s DSBB. A catalog of publications is available on the MoF website.

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Table 3d.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Government Finance Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions A formal migration path from the current presentation to the GFSM 2001 framework has not been articulated. Fiscal accounts are largely based on the methodology prescribed in the GFSM 1986, although divergences exist in the presentation of data. The distinction between domestic and foreign financing and debt is adequately based on the residency criteria of the BPM5. Scope The scope of the general government sector is in line with the GFSM 1986 and encompasses budgetary central government, (representing a total of about 1,520 individual budget institutions), local government (representing a total of about 2,160 units), and two extrabudgetary funds (the social security fund and the health insurance fund). Classification/sectorization Classifications are broadly in accordance with the GFSM 1986. The economic classification of expense and the inclusion of privatization receipts under financing (rather than under net lending minus repayments)—more closely approximate the GFSM 2001 framework. A functional classification of expenditure is available. Basis for recording Transactions are recorded on a cash basis as provided for in the GFSM 1986. Debt is recorded at face value, and amounts denominated in foreign currency are converted to leks at the official daily exchange rates provided by the BoA.	Source data The weakness in source data is in the availability of data on certain external donor financed (grants) projects that do not pass through the treasury system. The main data sources, which are timely, are reports of i) district treasury offices; ii) the Debt Management and Financial Analysis System; iii) project implementation units for foreign financed project; and iv) the extrabudgetary funds. Assessment of source data Detailed procedures are used—payment orders are checked against financing plans submitted; internal controls are applied within and between reports; and cross-checks are made between the Treasury balance and other balances. Results are monitored to guide internal planning. Statistical techniques Extensive use of administrative sources eliminates the need for estimations, surveys, and imputation. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs Transactions in each spending unit are reconciled with the change in balances on the relevant bank accounts, the records of the tax administration office, and the records of the Debt Office of the MoF, as relevant. Revision studies Discrepancies requiring revisions are documented in an internal memorandum prepared by the Budget and Treasury Directorates and sent to the Minister on a monthly basis for follow-up, if needed.	Periodicity and timeliness Periodicity and timeliness exceed the GDDS recommendations. Consistency Data are internally consistent. An interagency committee works to check consistency with the BoA’s monetary and balance of payments statistics and with INSTAT’s national accounts statistics. Revision policy and practice Owing to the long-term application of the GFSM 1986-based methodology, no advance notice of major changes in methodology occurs. Revisions follow a regular schedule but are not made publicly available. Technical descriptions of changes appear as footnotes in the quarterly bulletin Fiscal Statistics of Government.	Data accessibility An advance release calendar exists. Detailed tables (in Albanian and English) are disseminated in Fiscal Statistics of Government, which contains information on the final budget outcome in the June issue. Preliminary annual data are disseminated in the December issue of the monthly publication Economy and Budget, which is released (in Albanian) in February (i.e., with a two-month lag). In addition, the monthly Economy in Focus describes trends in public finance. These are available free of charge and on the MoF website. Metadata accessibility GFS metadata are available on the MoF website, in the quarterly bulletin, and on the IMF’s DSBB. Assistance to users Contact information is available in all MoF publications and on the IMF’s DSBB. A catalog of publications is available on the MoF website.

Table 3e.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Monetary Statistics

Table 3e.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Monetary Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions Albania’s monetary statistics are broadly consistent with the methodology of the Monetary and Financial Statistics Manual (MFSM). Scope The MFSM guidelines are followed. The depository corporations survey covers the Bank of Albania and all the other deposit-taking institutions (17 commercial banks and 130 savings and loans associations (SLAs)). Classification/sectorization Classification and sectorization principles are consistent with the MFSM guidelines. Basis for recording The accounts of the SLAs, with the exception of loans, are on a cash basis, which is not in accordance with the MFSM’s recommendations of accrual accounting. The accounts of the BoA and of the commercial banks are produced on an accrual basis. Market valuation principles are used in conformity with the MFSM’ guidelines, except for holdings of nontradable long-term securities, which are recorded at book value.	Source data Source data provide the information needed as specified in the MFSM. The source data are primarily generated from accounting records of the BoA, commercial banks, and SLAs. Assessment of source data Procedures are needed to minimize errors in commercial banks’ reporting and to speed up processes in correcting these errors. The reporting system is reviewed at the end of each year, reflecting changes in reporting requirements. Statistical techniques When delayed reporting by banks occurs, the compilation of monetary statistics is delayed until such time as all banks’ reports are received by the BoA. Delays in reporting are however a problem specific to a few banks. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs Statistical discrepancies and other potential problems are investigated and taken into account in future work programs. Revision studies Revision studies are carried out routinely to ensure the reliability of procedures and used to inform future statistical processes.	Periodicity and timeliness The GDDS recommendations are met. In the case of the analytical accounts of the central bank, the SDDS requirements have been achieved. Consistency Monetary statistics’ consistency is ensured by routinely checking the data on interbank positions and by maintaining consistent time series over a reasonable period. Revision policy and practice Monetary data are revised when errors are discovered. The revised data and an explanation of the revisions are published. BoA’s revision policy is posted on its website.	Data accessibility The public has ready access to monetary data through the BoA website and its publications. A database “Time Series” containing data and metadata is accessible through the BoA website. An advance release calendar is posted on the BoA website. Metadata accessibility A comprehensive document on sources and methods for monetary statistics compilation is posted on the BoA website. The metadata stored in the “Time Series” database provide various levels of detail for different needs of users. The BoA posts financial sector metadata on the IMF’s DSBB website and regularly updates them. Assistance to users The BoA promptly responds to queries and information requests. The BoA website provides users with detailed contact information. The website also provides users with information about electronic and paper-based publications of the BoA.

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Table 3e.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Monetary Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions Albania’s monetary statistics are broadly consistent with the methodology of the Monetary and Financial Statistics Manual (MFSM). Scope The MFSM guidelines are followed. The depository corporations survey covers the Bank of Albania and all the other deposit-taking institutions (17 commercial banks and 130 savings and loans associations (SLAs)). Classification/sectorization Classification and sectorization principles are consistent with the MFSM guidelines. Basis for recording The accounts of the SLAs, with the exception of loans, are on a cash basis, which is not in accordance with the MFSM’s recommendations of accrual accounting. The accounts of the BoA and of the commercial banks are produced on an accrual basis. Market valuation principles are used in conformity with the MFSM’ guidelines, except for holdings of nontradable long-term securities, which are recorded at book value.	Source data Source data provide the information needed as specified in the MFSM. The source data are primarily generated from accounting records of the BoA, commercial banks, and SLAs. Assessment of source data Procedures are needed to minimize errors in commercial banks’ reporting and to speed up processes in correcting these errors. The reporting system is reviewed at the end of each year, reflecting changes in reporting requirements. Statistical techniques When delayed reporting by banks occurs, the compilation of monetary statistics is delayed until such time as all banks’ reports are received by the BoA. Delays in reporting are however a problem specific to a few banks. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs Statistical discrepancies and other potential problems are investigated and taken into account in future work programs. Revision studies Revision studies are carried out routinely to ensure the reliability of procedures and used to inform future statistical processes.	Periodicity and timeliness The GDDS recommendations are met. In the case of the analytical accounts of the central bank, the SDDS requirements have been achieved. Consistency Monetary statistics’ consistency is ensured by routinely checking the data on interbank positions and by maintaining consistent time series over a reasonable period. Revision policy and practice Monetary data are revised when errors are discovered. The revised data and an explanation of the revisions are published. BoA’s revision policy is posted on its website.	Data accessibility The public has ready access to monetary data through the BoA website and its publications. A database “Time Series” containing data and metadata is accessible through the BoA website. An advance release calendar is posted on the BoA website. Metadata accessibility A comprehensive document on sources and methods for monetary statistics compilation is posted on the BoA website. The metadata stored in the “Time Series” database provide various levels of detail for different needs of users. The BoA posts financial sector metadata on the IMF’s DSBB website and regularly updates them. Assistance to users The BoA promptly responds to queries and information requests. The BoA website provides users with detailed contact information. The website also provides users with information about electronic and paper-based publications of the BoA.

Table 3f.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Balance of Payments Statistics

Table 3f.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Balance of Payments Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions Concepts and definitions are according to BPM5. Scope The scope of data collection and compilation conforms to the recommendations of BPM5. Classification/sectorization Classification and sectorization are according to BPM5. Basis for recording Interest is recorded on a cash basis. All other transactions are recorded according to satisfactory accrual procedures. Transaction prices are used for valuation. Imports are adjusted from c.i.f. to the f.o.b. basis and for smuggling. Grossing and netting procedures are consistent with BPM5.	Source data Source data, while timely, are based on infrequent and/or incomplete surveys, including those on freight, insurance, and smuggling adjustments for imports; travelers’ expenditures domestically and abroad; workers’ remittances; direct and portfolio investment; and trade credit. Grants from abroad to regional and local governments are underreported. Assessment of source data Source data are regularly assessed by compilers. As a consequence, the survey form for direct investment enterprises was revised, and quarterly surveys of remittances to households are planned. Statistical techniques The current manual compilation system based on distinct Excel spreadsheets is prone to error. Remittances are calculated from a subset of errors and omissions, rather than being estimated directly. The split of “total remittances” between compensation of employees and worker’s remittances should be re-estimated. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs Errors in intermediate outputs have resulted from manual calculation and/or data entry; these errors have been overlooked in the checking process. Revision studies Revisions are documented, and revision patterns are studied with a view to improving statistical processes.	Periodicity and timeliness Periodicity and timeliness meet GDDS recommendations and SDDS requirements. Consistency Data are consistent internally and over time. Balance of payments statistics are also consistent with other data sources and statistical frameworks such as international merchandise trade data, monetary statistics, and international transactions components of the national accounts. Revision policy and practice Within the current calendar year, errors are corrected for the quarter during which they occurred. This revision policy is posted on the BoA website. At the time of each major revision in data, the reason for the change is explained to users in a note or analytical article and, if appropriate, in the posted metadata.	Data accessibility Data are released simultaneously to all interested users. Data and analyses are published in hard copy free of charge and on the BoA website according to a preannounced schedule. Summary and more detailed presentations, including charts, are available. On request, even greater detail is provided. Metadata accessibility Metadata are provided in English on the DSBB and in Albanian, with greater detail, on the BoA website. A summary, hardcopy, nontechnical explanation of the balance of payments and its significance has been published in Albanian. Assistance to users Contact points are indicated in all hardcopy publications and on the BoA website. A catalog of publications is available in hardcopy and electronically. Assistance is regularly provided on request. Questions via e-mail are usually answered within 48 hours.

View Table

Table 3f.

Albania: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Balance of Payments Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions Concepts and definitions are according to BPM5. Scope The scope of data collection and compilation conforms to the recommendations of BPM5. Classification/sectorization Classification and sectorization are according to BPM5. Basis for recording Interest is recorded on a cash basis. All other transactions are recorded according to satisfactory accrual procedures. Transaction prices are used for valuation. Imports are adjusted from c.i.f. to the f.o.b. basis and for smuggling. Grossing and netting procedures are consistent with BPM5.	Source data Source data, while timely, are based on infrequent and/or incomplete surveys, including those on freight, insurance, and smuggling adjustments for imports; travelers’ expenditures domestically and abroad; workers’ remittances; direct and portfolio investment; and trade credit. Grants from abroad to regional and local governments are underreported. Assessment of source data Source data are regularly assessed by compilers. As a consequence, the survey form for direct investment enterprises was revised, and quarterly surveys of remittances to households are planned. Statistical techniques The current manual compilation system based on distinct Excel spreadsheets is prone to error. Remittances are calculated from a subset of errors and omissions, rather than being estimated directly. The split of “total remittances” between compensation of employees and worker’s remittances should be re-estimated. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs Errors in intermediate outputs have resulted from manual calculation and/or data entry; these errors have been overlooked in the checking process. Revision studies Revisions are documented, and revision patterns are studied with a view to improving statistical processes.	Periodicity and timeliness Periodicity and timeliness meet GDDS recommendations and SDDS requirements. Consistency Data are consistent internally and over time. Balance of payments statistics are also consistent with other data sources and statistical frameworks such as international merchandise trade data, monetary statistics, and international transactions components of the national accounts. Revision policy and practice Within the current calendar year, errors are corrected for the quarter during which they occurred. This revision policy is posted on the BoA website. At the time of each major revision in data, the reason for the change is explained to users in a note or analytical article and, if appropriate, in the posted metadata.	Data accessibility Data are released simultaneously to all interested users. Data and analyses are published in hard copy free of charge and on the BoA website according to a preannounced schedule. Summary and more detailed presentations, including charts, are available. On request, even greater detail is provided. Metadata accessibility Metadata are provided in English on the DSBB and in Albanian, with greater detail, on the BoA website. A summary, hardcopy, nontechnical explanation of the balance of payments and its significance has been published in Albanian. Assistance to users Contact points are indicated in all hardcopy publications and on the BoA website. A catalog of publications is available in hardcopy and electronically. Assistance is regularly provided on request. Questions via e-mail are usually answered within 48 hours.

III. Staff’s Recommendations

10. Based on the review of Albania’s statistical practices, discussions with the data-producing agencies, and responses from data users (see Appendix III of the Detailed Assessments volume), the mission has a set of recommendations. They are designed to increase further Albania’s adherence to internationally accepted statistical practices and would, in the mission’s view, enhance the analytical usefulness of Albania’s statistics. Some additional technical suggestions are included in the Detailed Assessments volume.