Applications are open for the 2026 “Introduction to Integrating Business and Trade Statistics” online course delivered by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research through its Division for Prosperity.

This free e-learning programme is designed to strengthen global statistical capacity by helping professionals understand how business and trade data can be combined to generate stronger economic insights and evidence-based policies.

Developed in partnership with the United Nations Statistics Division, the course introduces participants to internationally recognized frameworks that improve the quality, consistency, and usefulness of official statistics.

Programme Details

• Mode: Self-paced online learning
• Location: Web-based (Global participation)
• Course Period: 21 April – 31 December 2026
• Duration: Approximately 1.5–2 hours total study time
• Language: English
• Cost: Free of charge
• Registration: Open enrollment

Course Objective

The training is grounded in the Handbook on Integrating Business and Trade Statistics (HIBTS) endorsed by the United Nations Statistical Commission in 2025.

Participants gain practical knowledge on linking enterprise and trade data to produce policy-relevant statistics that support economic planning, trade analysis, and institutional decision-making.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Explain why integrating business and trade statistics improves policymaking.
• Identify statistical frameworks, data sources, and quality standards.
• Understand methodologies used to compile linked datasets.
• Recognize dissemination practices and confidentiality requirements.
• Explore emerging innovations shaping statistical integration.

Course Structure

The programme consists of six structured learning modules:

1. Policy drivers for integrating statistics
2. Conceptual and statistical frameworks
3. Data sources and quality management
4. Methods for linking business and trade datasets
5. Dissemination practices and confidentiality considerations
6. Innovation trends in statistical integration

Each lesson combines explanations, case studies, and short assessments designed to reinforce applied learning.

Learning Methodology

Participants progress through interactive, learner-focused modules featuring:

• Practical examples from official statistics systems
• Real policy application case studies
• Short quizzes to reinforce understanding
• Flexible self-paced participation

Data Protection

All participant information is handled according to UNITAR’s official data protection and privacy policy governing training activities and events.

Interested applicants can register online through the official UNITAR registration platform before the course closing date in December 2026.