What does e-invoice data bring to SNA and real-time economy?

Abstract

This paper explores the potential of electronic invoice data to enhance the System of National Accounts (SNA) and facilitate a Real-Time Economy (RTE). The rise of data science and advancements in information and communication technologies have increased the use of big data in economic statistics. E-invoice data is being digitized in Europe to detect VAT fraud, but it also contains a vast amount of information on economic entities that make up the SNA. This study focuses on integrating electronic accounting information to improve the coverage, granularity, and update speed of SNA. The paper examines the concept of RTE, which emphasizes real-time data processing and automation, particularly in Estonia and Finland. It also highlights the benefits and challenges of using invoice data for economic statistics, including issues related to data storage formats, legislative systems, and the coordination of data linkages. The research demonstrates invoice data’s theoretical and practical applications for constructing Input–Output Tables (IOTs) and monitoring financial situations. Despite the technical and institutional hurdles, the study suggests integrating invoice data can significantly transform economic statistics.