VBoS Business Survey advances to Second Phase

January 10, 2024 4:28 am | Posted in Business News | Share now Twitter Facebook

By Sabrina Tabi.

The Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics (VBoS) has shifted gears into the second phase of its Business Survey, initiated in November last year, focusing on follow-ups for the forms distributed to businesses.

This survey seeks to tackle the persistent problem of high operational costs for businesses in Vanuatu, a concern underscored in the previous year’s Business Census.

The survey specifically targets formal businesses—those with more than three employees, robust financial records, and official registration.

The Business Survey Coordinator and VBoS Statistician for National Accounts, James Temakon, told the Vanuatu Daily Post that nearly all Business Survey forms were disseminated last month across the provinces of TORBA, SANMA, SHEFA, and TAFEA, with only a few pending distributions this week.

While the initial response rate was low, Mr. Temakon noted a significant improvement by the end of December. Factors contributing to the earlier low response included unknown business addresses or closures due to the ongoing impact of Covid-19.

Following a halt in data collection due to the holiday break until December 22, operations resumed with the reopening of government offices. Temakon commented on the enhanced approach of this survey, emphasising in-person form delivery to businesses and patient assistance by field officers in form completion.

Acknowledging some concerns regarding the intrusive nature of certain questions, Temakon assured businesses of the protection under the VBoS Act, guaranteeing the confidentiality of sensitive business information. He also mentioned fortified security measures following a government system hack last year.

The survey’s questionnaires have been strategically designed to aid VBoS in rebasing the National Accounts and restructuring the economy—its primary objectives. This design might involve invasive questions, but their purpose aligns with these critical goals.

The provinces of PENAMA and MALAMPA were excluded from the survey due to their severe impact during last year’s cyclones, recognising the significant stress on respondents in these areas.

Out of the total 17,096 active businesses between 2019 and 2021, this survey will focus on 1,083 businesses. Temakon stated that a reason for this is because of the exclusion of the two provinces.

He further clarified that a sample size represents the entire unit in a survey, aiming to provide comprehensive insights into the broader business landscape.

This month is dedicated solely to follow-ups on forms distributed last month, with data entry scheduled for February.

Temakon urged businesses to swiftly complete and submit distributed forms to the designated VBoS field officers.