The HEIS survey, administered once every five years is carried out by the FSM’s Office of Statistics, Budget, Overseas Aid and Compact Management, which is responsible for statistics and compact management.
The 2010 HEIS coincided with the 2010 Census and was consequently delayed by a year. The expected completion is Dec. 2011.
The 2005 HEIS was instrumental in enabling the FSM to provide data on the distribution of income, compile its national accounts, provide nutritional information and food consumption patterns for families, and conduct a poverty hardship assessment.
“I commend the FSM government for making the HEIS a priority. Without sound economic data and statistics it becomes difficult for policy-makers to target government funding effectively and ensure vulnerable populations are being properly served,” said Assistant Interior Secretary for Insular Areas Tony Babauta.
The 2011 Survey is expected to cover regular household units, gathering data relating to income and expenditure that include standard economic and population demographics and statistics.
