SNA in National Statistics: Origins and Stages of Evolution

Abstract

The article considers the history of the System of National Accounts (SNA) and the main stages of its evolution in domestic statistics. A transition to the SNA was made from the Balance of the National Economy (BNE) – a system of macroeconomic indicators used in the USSR. It is noted that the experience of compiling BNE tables helped soviet statisticians master the SNA relatively fast.
The authors give special attention to 2008 SNA innovations and issues that Rosstat deals with in modern conditions. They, in particular, address evaluating the performance of the unobserved economy, treatment of holding gains, and computation of output of financial intermediaries. The authors comment on problems of treatment of outlays on research and development, military equipment in context with implementing the 2008 SNA, and issues with estimating GDP at constant prices. It is indicated that Rosstat is currently developing all the main accounts provided for by the 2008 SNA international standard. These data are used to guide economic and social government policy.
In conclusion, it is noted that Rosstat today is preparing to implement the provisions of the updated version of the 2008 SNA international standard, which is to be adopted at the UN Statistical Commission’s spring session of 2025. It will be a new stage in the evolution of national accounting in Russia.