Short term statistics

The economic data compiled for the EU-harmonised monthly short term statistics in industry and construction (Sections C to F of ÖNACE 2003 or Sections B to F of ÖNACE 2008), which were introduced in 1996, serves as one of the main sources of information for assessing the economic development of Austria and – owing to the obligation to report to the European Community as a component of the European information system – of the overall European economic and monetary area.

Owing to intensified goods flows, politicians, researchers and representative bodies compiling short term analyses must be able to draw upon economic statistics that enable them to make industry-specific statements at a pan-European level. Not only that; ever more market producers are being compelled to make decisions regarding not only capacity adjustments but also – and most importantly – international production locations with a view to exploiting new markets. The consequence is an urgent need and an increased demand for pan-EU economic statistics that are dependable, complete and up-to-date and for harmonised short term indicators that enable short term economic developments to be monitored and analysed. Both must demonstrate the maximum possible comparability at the European level.

The short term statistics for industry and construction are available

• as absolute data on the one hand
• and on the other serve as the primary statistical basis for computing the EU-harmonised short term indicators.