Methodology and Quality Update

Latest Update on Methodology and Quality

05/05/2026

Statistical Presentation

Data description

The Industrial Production Index (IPI) presents periodic statistical indicators on the economic activities classified within industrial activities. It is considered one of the main statistical outputs of the Industrial Production Survey. The index aims to measure the relative changes in the volume of industrial production quantities over time, thereby reflecting the performance of the industrial sector.
The Industrial Production Survey is conducted to collect data on the main characteristics as follows:
The Industrial Production Survey includes the periodic collection of statistical data from establishments operating within the targeted industrial activities in accordance with the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4). These activities include mining and quarrying, manufacturing, electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply, water supply, sewerage, waste management, and remediation activities, thereby ensuring comprehensive statistical coverage of the industrial sector.
Main objectives of the survey:
•    (Compilation of the Industrial Production Index - IPI).
•    Provide short-term data on industrial activities and their contribution to development.
•    Show changes in production over time, which can be used to forecast future trends, thereby supporting analysts and decision-makers in making informed decisions.
•    Support international comparisons.
The data is used to calculate:
•    General index of industrial production.
•    The index by the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4).
•    The Industrial Production Index by main economic activities.
•    The annual and monthly rates of change in the general IPI
•    The annual and monthly rates of change by the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4).
•    The annual and monthly rates of change by main economic activities.

Classifications

The following classifications are applied in the Industrial Production Survey.
The National Classification for Economic Activities (ISIC4):
It is a statistical classification based on the International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities (ISIC4), used to describe the productive activities of an establishment. 
Saudi Product Classification - based on the Central Product Classification (CPC 2.1): 
The Saudi Product Classification—based on the Central Product Classification (CPC 2.1) issued by the United Nations Statistical Commission in 2018—is an approved standard for the aggregation and classification of products, including goods and services. This classification is used in areas such as industrial production, national accounts, international trade, and the balance of payments to support the harmonization of statistics and facilitate statistical comparisons.
The classifications are available on the GASTAT website:  www.stats.gov.sa

Statistical concepts and definitions

Terms and concepts of the Industrial Production Survey:
•    General index of industrial production:
It is an economic indicator that reflects the relative changes in the volume of industrial production quantities, based on the data of the Industrial Production Survey, which is conducted on a sample of industrial establishments operating in the targeted industrial activities, namely mining and quarrying; manufacturing; electricity and gas supply; and water supply, sewerage, waste management, and remediation activities. The data of this indicator, published on a monthly basis, is classified according to the International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities (ISIC4).
•    Monthly rate of change:
The indicator reflects the monthly relative changes in production volumes between the current month and the previous month.
•    Annual rate of change:
An indicator that reflects the relative annual changes in production volumes between the target month and the corresponding month of the previous year.
•    Production:
It is the process through which inputs, such as raw materials and production factors, are transformed into outputs of industrial goods within a specified period of time.
•    Goods:
Tangible industrial products resulting from the production process, which are tradable or intended for final or intermediate use.
•    Quantity:
The volume of actual output of the produced good during the reference month, measured using the appropriate unit of measurement according to the nature of the product (e.g., ton, kilogram, liter, unit, cubic meter).
•    Value:
The monetary value of the total production sold during the reference month, excluding tax.

Data sources

The Industrial Production Index publication relies on two main data sources: 
First source: Monthly Industrial Production Survey.
It is the primary data source, used to collect periodic data from targeted industrial establishments to measure production volume during the reference month.
Second source: Administrative records data
Data derived from the administrative records of relevant entities,
Including:
•    Ministry of Energy
•    Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture
•    Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources
These data are used for the purpose of calculating the index.
The main indicators published for the survey data are:
•    General index of industrial production.
•    The index by the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4).
•    The Industrial Production Index by main economic activities.
•    The annual and monthly rate of change in the general index of industrial production.
•    The annual and monthly rates of change in the index by the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4).
•    The annual and monthly rates of change in the index by main economic activities.

Designing the data collection tool

An electronic form (CAPI) was designed to ensure ease of use by field researchers, and a (CATI) format was adopted to contact targeted respondents by phone. Data was collected using a questionnaire prepared and designed by specialists at the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT). In designing the questionnaire, international recommendations, standards, and definitions were taken into account. It was also presented to relevant entities to obtain their views and observations. The questions were formulated in a specific scientific manner to standardize the way questions are administered by researchers.
The questionnaire was programmed, and the tools necessary for conducting computer-assisted personal and telephone interviews (CAPI & CATI) were developed.
Sections of the questionnaire:
The questionnaire consists of two main sections, designed to ensure the collection of accurate data that supports the main objectives of the survey. The first section is dedicated to recording the basic data of the establishment, including key identification information, and specifying the main economic activity carried out by the establishment in accordance with the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4).
The second section focuses on collecting monthly production data related to the goods produced by the establishment during the reference period, in accordance with the Saudi Product Classification. 
Review and validation rules:
 Audit and control rules have been established in the form to ensure that the data collected is consistent, accurate, and logical. These rules were designed by establishing logical relationships between responses, questions, and various variables to assist the field researcher in directly detecting any errors during data entry.
To ensure the quality of the Industrial Production Index data, review and validation rules were established, as follows:
•    Error rules:
Rules that cannot be bypassed during the data entry process, where the field researcher is required to modify the data by referring back to the respondent to verify its accuracy. These rules amount to (8).
•    Warning rules:
These rules are designed to verify the correctness of the data entered by the researcher. The field researcher may override them if the data accuracy is confirmed, with a total of approximately 7 rules.

Questionnaire test (cognitive test)

The outputs of the previous cognitive testing were relied upon, and there was no need to repeat the test for the current year. The interview sample consisted of a random sample of establishments. Cognitive testing was conducted on several questionnaire questions based on the cognitive testing pillars. Several observations were identified in relation to the following pillars: the overall concept of the question, clarity of question wording, clarity of the terms used in the question, and the appropriateness of the response options, leading to the preparation of a report providing a comprehensive summary of the cognitive testing results.

Statistical population

The statistical population of the Industrial Production Survey consists of all industrial establishments operating within the specified industrial economic activities in accordance with the adopted classification (ISIC4) that carry out actual production activities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Sample Design

The sample was designed using a cut-off sampling method, as the survey focuses on prioritizing industrial establishments with higher relative importance. The sample size of the Industrial Production Survey is 1,004 establishments.

Statistical unit

The statistical unit used is the establishment.

Data collection

Industrial Production Survey data are collected through:
First: Data collection from respondents (survey)
Data for the Industrial Production Survey is collected from the targeted establishments using approved electronic data collection systems,
Including:
•    Computer-assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI).
•    Computer-assisted Web Interviews (CAWI).
•    Computer-assisted Interview (CAPI).
These systems enable the direct entry of data into central databases, enhancing the accuracy of data recording and the speed of processing
Second: Data collection from administrative records
Administrative data is obtained from relevant entities through approved official channels, in accordance with data exchange mechanisms. These data are used to support statistical coverage and complement certain industrial activities. The quality of administrative records data is verified by comparing the data with available historical series and reviewing significant discrepancies with the source entity when necessary.
Several automated validation procedures are applied during the data collection process to ensure data quality. This includes verifying the completeness of mandatory fields, checking internal consistency between variables, testing values to ensure they fall within expected ranges, and detecting any potential duplication or inconsistencies in the data. Electronic data collection systems also rely on automated validation rules and alerts, in addition to conducting subsequent reviews in accordance with approved statistical standards before the final validation of the data.

Data collection frequency 

The data collection process for the Industrial Production Survey is conducted on a monthly basis.

Reference area

The Industrial Production Survey covers 13 administrative regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Reference period (time reference)

Reference period of the variables or dataset is as follows:
•    All data related to the Industrial Production Index Statistics for 2026.
•    The reference period for the data is the month preceding the survey implementation period.

Base period

The base year used for calculating the Industrial Production Index is 2021.

Measurement unit

Statistical indicators are presented as index numbers relative to the base year, in addition to monthly and annual rates of change expressed as percentages.

Time coverage

Data is available from 2016 on a quarterly basis and has been published on a monthly basis from 2019 until the present time in 2026.

Publication frequency

Results of the Industrial Production Index Statistics are published monthly in accordance with the approved statistical plan.

Statistical processing

Error detection

Methodological procedures are applied to detect missing inputs, outliers, and anomalies in the data, based on standardized validation rules, and approved statistical methods, to ensure completeness, accuracy, and consistency of the data before the analysis stage.
These processes include the following:
•    Identification of illogical or out-of-range values.
•    Classification of the data and verification of its accuracy, with reference to the primary data source, whenever any errors or data quality issues are detected.
•    Review of internal consistency between variables to ensure logical relationships among values.
•    Comparison of current data with previous data to ensure the consistency of time series prior to data processing and the extraction of final results.

Data integration and matching from multiple sources 

Industrial Production Index Statistics rely on the integration of data from multiple sources, including administrative records and survey data, with the aim of achieving coherence between data characteristics and components and enhancing the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the indicators.
The integration process is carried out according to methodological steps that begin with harmonizing definitions, classifications, and reference periods across different sources, followed by matching and linking processes using unified identifiers or approved linkage keys. Verification procedures are also conducted to ensure data consistency after integration. These include checking consistency between variables, reviewing conflicting values, and verifying the structural integrity of the data.
This procedure aims to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the final data used in preparing the statistical publication and to provide a clear and consistent picture of Industrial Production Statistics.

Imputation and calibration

Data derived from different sources is reviewed, with missing and outlier values identified. Values are considered outliers when there are significant, unjustified changes in production quantities compared to the previous period. In such cases, establishments are contacted to verify the accuracy of the data before any imputation is applied. 
Standard imputation methods are also applied, based on international practices outlined in the United Nations International Recommendations for the Index of Industrial Production, to ensure data completeness and the reliability of the indicators. 
The indicators are calculated using the Laspeyres methodology, based on base-period weights. This methodology allows for an accurate measurement of economic performance over time, taking into account the impact of larger and more heavily weighted sectors on the overall index. 

•     :  The product price in the base period.

•     :  Production quantity in the base period.
•     :  Production quantity in the comparison period.
•     : Relative weights.

Seasonal adjustments

No seasonal adjustment methodology is applied to the Industrial Production Index data, as the actual values are used as they are without removing or adjusting for potential seasonal effects.

Adjustment of preliminary results 

Preliminary results of the Industrial Production Index are released and published in accordance with the specified schedule, with data for the previous three months updated when revised information or necessary corrections become available. 

Used Resources

Quality dimensions

Suitability

A criterion that measures the extent to which the product meets users’ needs.

User needs 

Internal users of Industrial Production Index results within GASTAT:
•    National accounts.
External users and beneficiaries of Industrial Production Index results:
•    Government entities.
•    Regional and international organizations.
•    Research institutions.
•    Media.
•    Individuals.
Key indicators that external users benefit from include:
•    General index of industrial production.
•    The index by the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4).
•    The Industrial Production Index by main economic activities.
•    The annual and monthly rate of change in the general index of industrial production.
•    The annual and monthly rates of change in the index by the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4).
•    The annual and monthly rates of change in the index by main economic activities.

Completeness 

The Industrial Production Survey includes the periodic collection of statistical data from establishments operating within the targeted industrial activities in accordance with the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4). These activities include mining and quarrying, manufacturing, electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply, water supply, sewerage, waste management, and remediation activities, thereby ensuring comprehensive statistical coverage of the industrial sector. Results are also published at detailed levels up to the second-digit level.

Accuracy and reliability 

A measure of the extent to which estimates or calculations are close to the true or exact values that reflect reality.

Overall accuracy 

•    Data quality is enhanced through the selection of researchers based on a set of practical and objective criteria related to the nature of the work, as well as their qualification and training.
•    Alert, validation, and correction rules are applied during data collection via the Industrial Production Survey's electronic questionnaire to enhance data quality.
•    Data is checked with previous years to identify any significant changes in the data.
•    The internal consistency of the data is verified.
•    The links between variables are checked and coherence between different data series is confirmed.

Timeliness and punctuality 

Timeliness A standard that indicates the length of time between the availability of information and the occurrence of the event.
Punctuality It reflects the time lag between the data publication date and the target date when publication actually occurs.

Timeliness 

Results of the Industrial Production Index are released approximately 40 days after the end of the reference period. The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) adheres to the Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS) issued by the International Monetary Fund. According to this Standard, all statistics agencies are required to publish data on a monthly basis, and with a delay of no more than 6 weeks (42 days) after the end of the reference period. 

Punctuality 

Publication is carried out in accordance with the release dates specified in the statistical calendar published on GASTAT’s website for the Industrial Production Index. The data are available at the expected time, as scheduled in the statistical release calendar, If the publication is delayed, reasons shall be provided.

Coherence and comparability

A standard that refers to the necessity of internal and temporal consistency of statistics, their logical coherence, and their comparability and integration across different regions and sources.

Comparability - geographical

Industrial Production Index Statistics are internationally comparable, as they are produced in accordance with ISIC4 and in line with internationally adopted standards.

Comparability - over time 

The survey began in 2016 as a quarterly survey, and the time series of the Industrial Production Index has undergone several methodological updates over the covered period:
•    Change in survey frequency: In 2019, the survey transitioned from a quarterly to a monthly frequency, enabling more detailed and timely data coverage.
•    Base year update: In 2024, the base year was updated to more accurately reflect the updated industrial structure, ensuring better representation of current economic sectors.

Coherence- Cross domain

Industrial Production Index results are consistent with other relevant statistics and data sources.

Coherence- Sub-annual and annual statistics 

The Industrial Production Index is released on a monthly and annual basis, where the annual statistics represent the annual average of the monthly values. The results show consistency between the monthly and annual releases.

Coherence- National Accounts 

Industrial Production Index results generally reflect consistency with national accounts, as the Industrial Production Index is considered one of the key inputs used in national accounts.

Coherence- Internal 

Industrial Production Index estimates have full internal consistency, as they are all based on the same set of detailed data and are calculated using the same estimation methods.

Accessibility and clarity

This refers to users’ access to data, the availability of detailed or aggregate data, as well as the availability of the Methodology and Quality Report.

Press releases

The announcements for each publication are available on the statistical calendar as mentioned in 10.1. The press releases can be viewed on the website of GASTAT on the link: 
Press release

Publications

GASTAT issues Industrial Production Index publications regularly in accordance with a pre-prepared dissemination plan, and they are published on its website. GASTAT is keen to publish its publications in a way that serves all users of different types, including publications in different formats that contain (publication tables, data graphs, indicators, methodology and quality report, and used questionnaires) in both English and Arabic.
The results of the Industrial Production Index are available at:
Industrial Production Index

Online database

The data is published on the statistical database:
GASTAT (stats.gov.sa)

Microdata accessibility

Not available.

References and standards

The Industrial Production Index is based on the United Nations International Recommendations for the Index of Industrial Production (2010) issued by the United Nations Statistics Division, which provide the key standards and principles for compiling the index in an internationally comparable manner.
https://unstats.un.org/unsd/statcom/doc10/bg-industrialstats.pdf

Quality assurance

GASTAT ensures that the following principles are taken into account: Impartiality; ensuring that the statistical product is user-oriented; quality of processes and outputs; effectiveness of statistical operations; and reduction of the burden on respondents. 
Data is validated through procedures and quality controls that are applied during the process at various stages, such as data entry, data collection, and other final controls.

Quality assessment

GASTAT carries out all statistical activities in accordance with the National Model (Generic Statistical Business Process Model – GSBPM). During the comprehensive evaluation stage, which is the final stage of GSBPM, information collected across all stages and sub-processes is used to prepare an evaluation report that summarizes all challenges related to the quality of each statistical process and serves as an input for improvement and development processes.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality - Policy

According to Royal Decree No. 23 dated 07/12/1379, data must always be kept confidential and must be used by GASTAT for statistical purposes only.
Therefore, the data is protected in the data servers of GASTAT.

Confidentiality - Data Treatment

Data of SMEs survey are presented in right tables in order to summarize, understand, as well as extract their results. Moreover, to compare them with other data, and to obtain statistical significance about the selected study population. However, referring to such data indicated in tables is much easier than going back to check the original questionnaire that may include some data like names and addresses of individuals, and names of data providers, which violates data confidentiality of statistical data.
“Anonymity of data” is one of the most important procedures. To keep data confidential, GASTAT removed information on individual persons, households, or business entities in such a way that the respondent cannot be identified either directly, such as by name, address, contact number, identity number, etc., or indirectly by combining different, especially rare, characteristics of respondents, such as age, occupation, education, etc.

Publishing policy

Statistical calendar

The Industrial Production Index has been included in the statistical calendar. 
Statistical Calendar

User access

One of GASTAT’s objectives is to better meet its clients' needs; therefore, it provides them with the results of the Industrial Production Index publication as soon as they are released.
Customer questions and inquiries regarding the publication and its results are also received through various communication channels, such as:
•    GASTAT official website:  www.stats.gov.sa
•    GASTAT official email address:  info@stats.gov.sa
•    Official visits to GASTAT’s official head office in Riyadh or one of its branches in Saudi Arabia.
•    Official letters.
•    Statistical telephone: (199009).