Detailed import and export data is now free

Embargoed until 10:45am – 20 May 2009
Detailed import and export data is now free

Accessing detailed import and export data is easier than ever before, thanks to Statistics New Zealand’s release of the second stage of Infoshare. The online tool adds information on imported and exported goods to the vast array of free information already available on the web.

The addition of this import and export data makes Infoshare a valuable tool for exporters to gather information from an independent source.

“An exporter, for example, could use the data to monitor trends, market conditions and their own position within particular markets," says Kathy Connolly, Manager Business Indicators.

The Infoshare database contains a broad range of time-series data. This information can tell you how and where New Zealanders live, about our work, income, spending and recreation, and what we produce for export.

Examples of how businesses and other organisations could use Infoshare include: • Businesses that provide products and services to the building industry can monitor the number of building consents issued in particular areas, so they can anticipate demand for their products.

• Tourism organisations can look at tourist numbers over time, to plan their services more effectively for seasonal fluctuations or to assess market share.

• Lawyers can use price index figures for inflation adjustment clauses in contracts.

• A regional council can use business statistics to plan and evaluate initiatives to attract business and industry to its region.

Statistics New Zealand updates Infoshare within five minutes of the official release of new information. This timeliness is especially important for users of economic data, such as GDP and CPI.

Infoshare also holds historical data, which allows users to evaluate trends or seasonal changes.

Visit: http://www.stats.govt.nz/infoshare Geoff Bascand

Government Statistician 20 May 2009

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