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The Council of Ministers, in its session held yesterday, Tuesday, 6 February 2024, in Riyadh, issued a resolution appointing Ms. Sara Alsuhaimi as a member, and renewing the membership of Mr. David Kalisch in GASTAT’s board of directors as specialists in the field of  GASTAT's work, for a period of three years.

The General Authority for Statistics GASTAT has released the annual statistics publication of foreign direct investment FDI for the year 2022 and for Q3 of 2023 in Saudi Arabia. This is the first time GASTAT has announced these indicators after adopting its calculation methodology in October of last year.  According to the publication's results, the total balance of FDI in Saudi Arabia reached 762 billion SAR at the end of 2022. The total inflows of FDI in Saudi Arabia amounted to 123 billion SAR, while the total outflows reached 17 billion SAR. The net inflows of FDI in Saudi Arabia amounted to 105 billion SAR. In the same context, GASTAT published the statistics of FDI for Q3 of 2023, indicating that the total inflows of FDI in Saudi Arabia amounted to 17 billion SAR. The total outflows of FDI in Saudi Arabia reached 5 billion SAR, while the net inflows of FDI in Saudi Arabia amounted to 11 billion SAR. On this occasion, Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, affirmed that Saudi Arabia's announcement of FDI for the first time adds a new global standard to improve the quality and transparency of the methodology for calculating FDI statistics. This is achieved by providing globally leading levels of transparency and governance. He also highlighted the joint efforts with the International Monetary Fund in this project and the integration of roles between the Central Bank and the Ministry of Investment to reach the methodology adopted by GASTAT for calculating the index. He explained that it will enable investors to make investment decisions based on reliable results that support decision-makers and policymakers, and to design investment policies that attract more foreign investments and inform investors about the best investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia. It is worth mentioning that the new methodology was adopted after alignment with the International Monetary Fund in the new methodology and the confirmation of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) to apply the best practices and international standards according to the International Monetary Fund's Balance of Payments Manual. In addition, the World Bank supported the recommendations presented by the International Monetary Fund in its recent report on Saudi Arabia, which form the basis of the new methodology. The new methodology will contribute to enhancing governance levels and improving the quality of transparency in the statistical data and information for calculating direct foreign investment indicators as an investment destination in Saudi Arabia. FDI Index includes about 19 new indicators as part of the new methodology approved by the International Monetary Fund, including the balance and inflows of direct foreign investment by economic activity, investing countries, and regions of Saudi Arabia for the period from 2007 to 2022.

The ranking of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), has jumped 25 places in the Statistical Performance Index (SPI) issued by the World Bank. It ranked first in the Gulf and advanced four places in the same index among the G20 countries, coming in at 15th place after previously being ranked 19th in the 2019 assessment. The World Bank recently announced the results of the assessment of the maturity and performance of statistical systems (SPI), which included 186 countries. The assessment focuses on five main dimensions distributed over more than 52 indices, covering data sources, statistical products and services, and infrastructure. The Kingdom achieved 100% in the data use dimension and scored 80.8% in the assessment, a significant increase from the previous score of 63.4% in 2019. It was the highest progress among the G20 countries, with a progress rate of 17.4%.   Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, explained that the support and empowerment received by GASTAT in the past period contributed to achieving strategic transformations in the statistical production and technical infrastructure fields. This had a great impact on enhancing the statistical role played by GASTAT and achieving progress in comparison to many official statistical agencies around the world. It also contributed to building and calculating high-quality indices and statistical data that lauded by international organizations specialized in the statistical field. Moreover, it supported all sectors of the state with statistical data that assist decision-makers and policymakers. He emphasized the importance of continuous collaboration with partners to further develop statistical production. It is worth mentioning that this significant progress achieved by the Kingdom in the assessment of the national statistical agencies' performance index (SPI) is a continuation of the efforts of GASTAT in implementing the statistical transformation that aligns with the national transformation in various sectors and fields, in line with Saudi Vision 2030. GASTAT is making relentless efforts to anticipate the future in light of its transformation strategy, which includes developing the technical infrastructure, improving field surveys and statistical products, as well as enhancing partnerships with the government, private, and non-profit sectors. It also works on improving data availability and meeting statistical requirements at the local, regional, and international levels, while focusing on increasing customer satisfaction through continuous development of data presentation and statistical indices interactively and smoothly. In the same context, this achievement reflects the level of support and empowerment GASTAT receives from the wise leadership and the great confidence in its national role in providing statistical data, building, and measuring national statistical indices that support sustainable development plans and the development of the Saudi economy, and improving the quality of life in the Kingdom.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has signed a memorandum of cooperation with the National Debt Management Center aimed at enhancing collaboration, strengthening coordination and integration of efforts in their respective fields of expertise, It also aims to establish a general framework for joint activities and tasks. The memorandum was signed by Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Dossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, and Mr. Hani bin Madini Al-Madini, CEO of the National Debt Management Center. The memorandum included several tracks, including the exchange of support, technical and scientific expertise according to each party's specialization, as well as advice in their respective fields of expertise, including research, studies, and publications. In addition, it provides an opportunity for the employees of both parties to participate in developmental courses, seminars, scientific conferences, and workshops. In this context, Al-Dosssri indicated that the creation and measurement of statistical indicators is a key component of the statistical work that is necessary to achieve the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. He underlined how crucial it is for GASTAT and the National Debt Management Center to collaborate in order to provide statistical data and indicators, as well as how government entities should integrate with one another. This will positively impact the success of collaborative efforts in line with GASTAT's ongoing development and transformation. In order to improve the economic and social statistical products that support the country's economy and sustainable development, he said that this partnership will help both parties meet their requirements and understand statistical developments and future trends. On his part, Al-Madani emphasized the significance of this memorandum in the framework of enhancing the knowledge sharing in related fields amongst government sectors. This will improve the ability to analyze data required to demonstrate the Kingdom's strong credit position.

As part of its efforts to provide statistical data and indicators that contribute to the development of the Saudi economy and support the diversification of its sources, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) launched the Comprehensive Economic Survey, which aims to provide accurate statistical data and indicators to update the base year in the Gross Domestic Product, in addition to updating the statistical business record. Additionally, the survey aims to provide the necessary statistical data that contribute to identifying opportunities and defining challenges in economy development. GASTAT demonstrated that this survey will help provide statistical data that enables decision-makers, policymakers, and investors to deal with data for the purposes of local, regional, and international comparisons, as well as for conducting studies and analyses. GASTAT also pointed out that participating in providing data for the Comprehensive Economic Survey will contribute to the development of strategies and development plans, programs, and performance indicators in establishments engaged in various economic activities. It will further assist in building an integrated system of measures for the development and support of economic activities in the Kingdom, in a way that achieves the desired growth and sustainability. GASTAT has highlighted its ongoing commitment to utilizing all available resources to achieve precise statistical indicators, in line with the latest scientific methodologies and standards. This includes the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Survey. It detailed that survey procedures would encompass telephone communication, self-completion, and field visits to collect economic data across different sectors. The objective is to offer a distinct overview of the economic indicators essential for understanding growth rates across various and economic establishments and sectors. This initiative is considered a crucial step towards fulfilling the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. Moreover, GASTAT indicated that the Comprehensive Economic Survey encompasses all economic activities in the Kingdom, regardless of their size, type, or geographic scope. It noted that this survey is part of a collaborative framework involving all relevant governmental entities associated with economic activities. This collaboration is reflected in the design of the survey questionnaire, which adheres to precise statistical standards to ensure the provision of accurate statistical data and indicators used in measuring various aspects of economic indicators' preparation process, where this would help in understanding the growth rates of these sectors. GASTAT emphasizes that all data are treated with utmost confidentiality in accordance with the General Statistics Law issued by the Council of Ministers. It is impossible to publish data of establishments collected through electronic questionnaires. GASTAT is committed to protecting the privacy of this data, ensuring that it is only used for statistical purposes. This includes producing aggregate results and general indicators, strictly following the laws and regulations of the Kingdom. Therefore, GASTAT invites all establishments to participate in this survey and provide accurate statistical data and indicators on the economic establishments of the Kingdom. GASTAT also urges everyone to cooperate with the statistical researcher who will collect the required data, given the importance of establishment data in supporting the decision-making process and shaping economic policies. Furthermore, GASTAT welcomes all inquiries and requests via the unified statistical phone number (920020081), the customer support email (cs@stats.gov.sa), or GASTAT’s website (www.stats.gov.sa). Comprehensive Economic Survey : https://www.stats.gov.sa/en/awareness-surveys/CCS

Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), met with businessmen from the private sector at the headquarters of the Federation of Saudi Chambers (FSC), in the presence of the Acting Secretary General of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, Mr. Waleed H. Alorainan. As part of the meeting, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed to cooperate in the field of statistics and exchange of expertise between (GASTAT) and (FSC). The aim is to contribute to the development and enhancement of economic statistics that support decision-makers and policymakers in both government and private sectors. During the meeting, the President of (GASTAT) discussed with businessmen and the private sector the pivotal role played by (GASTAT) in providing statistics, economic indicators, and other related information. The steps taken by (GASTAT) within its strategic transformation to develop its statistical products were also reviewed. Additionally, the role of the private sector in enhancing the efforts of (GASTAT) and the integration between them in developing economic indicators and statistical data, including data collection and analysis, was discussed. The (MoU) emphasizes cooperation in the areas of exchanging expertise and information between the two parties to develop statistical work and programs aimed at raising awareness in private sector establishments about the role and importance of (GASTAT) in performing its national duties. This includes participation in statistical surveys, facilitating access to information, exchanging visits between experts and specialists in relevant statistical fields, and benefiting from databases and information in shared areas. It also includes organizing conferences, seminars, and workshops between the two parties. The (MoU) was signed by Dr. Fahad Aldossari, the President of (GASTAT), and the Acting Secretary General of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, Mr. Waleed H. Alorainan, in the presence of several staff members from (GASTAT), (FSC), businessmen, and the private sector. Dr. Fahad Aldossari emphasized that the meeting between (GASTAT) and the private sector comes within the framework of improving performance regarding the development of statistical products and indicators. It aims to identify the needs and opportunities of the private sector in the field of statistical information and data. He also emphasized the importance of integrated work between (GASTAT) and private sector partners, which positively reflects on the success of joint work and enhances cooperation in line with the development and change process that (GASTAT) is undergoing. Additionally, it aims to benefit from advanced statistical programs and products that increase business and investment opportunities in various fields. From his side, Mr. Waleed H. Alorainan emphasized the importance of cooperation between (GASTAT)and the private sector, given the complementary roles between the two parties. Companies and institutions are the main source of data for GASTAT, while the statistics provided by GASTAT are among the most important sources relied upon by the business sector in studies, analysis, and strategic decision-making. He expressed his hope that this partnership would contribute to meeting the requirements of both parties and understanding the economic statistical developments and future trends for the development of statistical products and private sector opportunities that support the national economy, sustainable development, and the goals of Vision 2030. It is worth mentioning that (FSC) acts as an umbrella for the business sector and chambers of commerce in the Kingdom. It represents them at the local and international levels and works to develop the role of the private sector in the national economy in coordination with government agencies. It also represents the sector in forums, events, and conferences, and participates in local and international economic decision-making. Additionally, it enhances the Kingdom's trade and investment relations with the world and supports the access of Saudi exports to foreign markets.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) obtained the Institutional Excellence Certificate (Qualified by EFQM) from the European Foundation for Quality Management. GASTAT managed to obtain this certificate after achieving compliance with the EFQM model according to the RADAR matrix. This was through the application of institutional excellence standards set by the Foundation, which align with the directions of Saudi Vision 2030. The certificate was obtained due to commitment to the standards of the European Foundation for Quality Management and the application of its adopted model, which was established in 1989 and is considered the most widely spread around the world. Meeting the model's requirements is one of the directions pursued by several local and international entities in the field of institutional excellence. It enables organizations to achieve high-quality business results within a governance framework that contributes to business sustainability, improves work environments and increases productivity. This achievement highlights GASTAT's efforts exerted to develop its statistical system by ensuring sustainable quality operations, creating sustainable value for the statistical product, assessing the comprehensive experience, focusing on digital transformation, and utilizing modern technologies and international practices to ensure high efficiency in performance and access to high-quality statistics. The EFQM excellence model, launched by the European Foundation, is a comprehensive framework for corporate management systems, created to assist organizations in their approach towards establishing institutional work, raising the level of performance, meeting the needs of beneficiaries in terms of services, and ensuring sustainability. In this context, Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Dossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, expressed his appreciation for the efforts made to align with the European model of institutional excellence by EFQM. He noted that obtaining this certificate is an important contributor to sustainability and development. It also supports GASTAT and its staff in raising the level of performance and developing their operations, especially since it was achieved through an external evaluation by the European Foundation for Quality Management based on a comprehensive and precise set of practical procedures covering all GASTAT's technical and administrative activities. He added, "Through continuous institutional planning and development, we have achieved excellence in this critical stage that GASTAT is experiencing, as it is going through a comprehensive transformation at various levels, striving to achieve the highest standards of quality. This comes from the efforts and collaboration of GASTAT staff and the hard work they put in to be part of this success." It is worth mentioning that the European Foundation for Quality Management is an independent, non-profit organization established in October 1989 when the heads of 67 European companies joined the institution's policy document and declared their commitment to achieving the mission and vision of the European Foundation for Quality Management. The Foundation includes a team of experts and academics to develop the EFQM Excellence Model, a comprehensive framework applicable to any organization, regardless of its size or sector. The Foundation aims to increase the competitiveness and efficiency of all organizations sustainably . It provides its methods and models in more than 30 languages and offers services in over 40 countries worldwide.

The General Authority for Statistics issued the publication of health and safety at work statistics for the year 2023 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The publication showed that 45.8% of employees in the Kingdom work for more than 40 hours per week, and 39.6% of employees work for 40 hours per week on average. The actual working hours per day for employees is 8 hours. The percentage of employees who have been trained on health and safety procedures at work reached 46.6%, while the percentage of employees who have a dedicated health and safety department at their workplace reached 48.7%. The most common risks faced by employees are standing for long periods of at least four hours daily with a percentage of 28.21%, sitting on a chair for long periods exceeding three continuous hours with a percentage of 28.15%, and moving the upper limbs repeatedly for long periods with a percentage of 17.1%. 7.8% of employees directly or indirectly deal with chemical substances, medical waste, radioactive materials, or toxic gases, while 6.3% of employees face risks such as electrical risks, machinery risks, or drowning. The percentage of employees who have coverage for basic healthcare reached 89.7%. The most common work-related health issue in the past 12 months is "work-related stress" with a percentage of 3.2%, while 83.5% of employees do not suffer from any work-related health issues.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries celebrate Gulf Statistics Day under the theme "Statistics for Sustainable Opportunities." This celebration is part of the efforts to enhance statistical work aimed at providing statistical data that supports development plans and achieves the targets of visionary development in the Council's countries. On this occasion, Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, congratulated the employees in the statistical sector. He commended the role of the statistical center of the GCC countries in developing statistical work and coordinating between national statistical centers and planning agencies in the Council's countries. He emphasized that statistics and statistical centers play a prominent role in providing statistical data that contributes to supporting policymakers and decision-makers in the Council's countries. He added, "The collaborative efforts between statistical centers in the GCC countries have contributed to measuring progress towards achieving the goals of national visions and sustainable development for the Council's countries. This is achieved through joint efforts to enhance performance in terms of exchanging statistical data and implementing the statistical strategic plan. He emphasized the importance of the collaborative relationships among the GCC countries and the extensive cooperation in the field of statistics, providing more opportunities for effective collaboration in the field of information and statistical data." Statistical work in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia began early in the year 1349 H (1930) and evolved into an organized effort based on the regulatory, administrative, and technical framework of the General Statistics System issued by Royal Decree No. 23 on 7/12/1379 H (1/6/1960). The General Statistics System regulated the statistical sector by defining the relationship between the General Statistics and Information Department and other entities. This culminated in the issuance of a royal decree in 1436 AH, transforming the General Statistics and Information Department into a public entity named the General Authority for Statistics, endowed with legal personality and financial and administrative independence. In 1437 H, approval was granted to regulate the General Authority for Statistics. The regulation stipulated that the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) is a government entity with an independent legal personality. GASTAT’s board of directors is chaired by His Excellency the Minister of Economy and Planning and consists of the following members: Ministers of Energy, Finance, Human Resources and Social Development, Education, and Industry and Mineral Resources. In addition to the Director of National Information Center, President of the General Authority for Statistics, and two other members specialized in the statistical field. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for implementing, supervising, and regulating the statistical work in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  It provides statistical products in social, economic, and environmental fields to support policymakers and decision-makers in advancing the implementation of development plans. It's worth noting that the Ministerial Council of the GCC, convened in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, in November 2016 during its 141st session, approved the designation of a Gulf Statistics Day to be observed annually. The significance of this day lies in emphasizing the partnership of the entire society with statisticians and highlighting the vital role statistics play in achieving sustainable development for the Council's countries. It also underscores the strategic role of the Gulf statistical system in decision-making and the development of policies in the region.