How does Statistics Netherlands collect data?

Statistics Netherlands (CBS) collects as much information as possible from existing government and business registries. The use of this data is regulated by law, with top priority given to privacy and reliability. Additionally, we collect data through our own surveys, while always seeking to minimize the administrative burden on citizens and businesses. Statistics Netherlands is legally required to compile and publish certain statistics: this is our statutory task.

60 percent from existing registers

60 percent of the figures collected and analyzed by Statistics Netherlands come from public or business registers, such as the PIVA (population register), the Tax and Customs Administration, companies’ annual reports to calculate GDP, or data from energy companies on household and business energy consumption. The main advantage of using data from registers is that Statistics Netherlands no longer has to contact individuals and businesses as often, which makes the survey process less burdensome and time-consuming for everyone.

40 percent from surveys

40 percent of our data is collected directly from businesses and citizens. This is done by means of surveys conducted mostly face-to-face or on a smaller scale online.

Combining all these data sources in an innovative and reliable way enables us to produce more up-to-date and detailed statistics. We constantly aim to be responsive to society and we always keep privacy and reliability in mind.

Facts that matter

Statistics Netherlands stands for a well-informed society, based on facts. We aim to help achieve this by publishing reliable, objective information and providing the insights that are required by government and society. In this way, Statistics Netherlands contributes to the societal debate, policy development, decision making and research.