IME Methodology
Estimates of Scottish manufactured exports are compiled on the standard industrial classification UKSIC(2003). Implemented on 1st January 2003, UKSIC(2003) is a minor revision to UKSIC(92), in line with the latest revision of the European Union classification system.
The estimates are derived from data on sales of goods produced by the Scottish manufacturing industry for export outwith the UK. The Office for National Statistics collects the data used to produce these figures in their Monthly Production Inquiry. Export estimates for the refined petroleum products industry are calculated using a volume series supplied by the Department of Trade and Industry and export ratios supplied by the Global Connections Survey. The data are then deflated to 2000 prices using UK export producer price indices, which are also produced by the ONS.
Deflated exports sales of the companies covered by the survey are then grossed up to represent the entire population using the Inter Departmental Business Register (IDBR).
The data are then seasonally adjusted where appropriate. The Scottish Executive has developed systems to seasonally adjust the series in line with standard National Statistics practice.
The index of Scottish manufactured exports is based on a sample of around 1,000 Scottish manufacturing companies per quarter. This sample covers all sizes of unit across the manufacturing sector.
More detailed information about the methodology employed is available by downloading the following link.