The National Institute of Statistics (INE) of Sao Tome and Principe has initiated a qualitative survey to evaluate the country's economic evolution and business performance. The survey, which started on October 15, targets companies, commercial establishments, service providers, and market vendors. It aims to gather information on sales evolution, product commercialization, and economic prospects for the coming months.
The survey is being conducted in two phases, with the first phase taking place in the Autonomous Region of Principe from November 3. Antónia Sousa, head of the INE's Economic and Financial Statistics Department, explained that the data collected will enable the comparison of commercial activity between different periods, identification of trends, and assessment of the business environment in the country.
The survey focuses on the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, as well as prospects for the end of the year. The INE aims to understand whether economic activities are improving, remaining stable, or deteriorating. This information will help identify the main challenges faced by companies, including financing problems and the rising cost of living.
Antónia Sousa emphasized the importance of collaboration from companies and market vendors, highlighting that their participation is crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of statistical data. The INE has deployed ten interviewers, with eight responsible for establishments and services and two for collecting information from market vendors in Bobô Forro market.
In addition to the qualitative survey, the INE maintains teams of interviewers who visit commercial and service establishments monthly to collect information on products and prices, essential data for calculating inflation. Antónia Sousa stressed that the collaboration of economic operators is indispensable for ensuring the continuity and effectiveness of this statistical work.
The qualitative survey, conducted by the National Institute of Statistics, runs until November 5 and aims to contribute to a better understanding of the country's economic reality by collecting information directly from agents that drive trade and services in Sao Tome and Principe.
The INE's efforts to gather accurate data are crucial for informing economic policies and decision-making in the country. The survey's findings will provide valuable insights into the country's economic performance and help identify areas for improvement.
Key points
- The National Institute of Statistics (INE) of Sao Tome and Principe is conducting a qualitative survey to assess the country's economic evolution and business performance.
- The survey aims to gather information on sales evolution, product commercialization, and economic prospects for the coming months.
- The INE's efforts to gather accurate data are crucial for informing economic policies and decision-making in the country.
