Statistics Netherlands calculates population growth rates and, based on a long series of historical figures, forecasts the number of inhabitants for the Netherlands in a certain year. Our statistics are available to everyone and give an insight into almost every social and economic trend, from economic growth, employment and inflation to births, quality of life and mortality. Statistics Netherlands provides such figures, and in the course of its long history the bureau has proven to be impartial and reliable. It is independent of pressure groups and its statistics are compiled using up-to date scientifically tested methods. Statistics Netherlands' products are used for a wide variety of purposes.
Newspapers publish reports based on statistical surveys almost everyday.
Articles on employment, inflation and economic growth are not complete without data from Statistics Netherlands. But references to our figures are also encountered in renewals of or adjustments to lease contracts or insurance policies. Employers' organisations and the trade unions use Statistics Netherlands' consumer price index, which reflects price trends, for negotiations on wages and other agreements. The business community is not only interested in how the Dutch economy is doing as a whole, but also in the developments in the various sectors of industry. Information on labour costs and price trends can help them compare their own sector with others and with national developments.