BPS: 2026 Economic Census to Map Digital Economy
The Indonesian Central Statistics Agency (BPS) is preparing to conduct the 2026 Economic Census, which aims to comprehensively map changes in economic activities across Indonesia. This step is being taken to provide a foundation for more accurate development policy formulation amidst the rapid transformation of business models and digital-based transactions.
BPS Chief Inspector, Dadang Hardiwan, explained that technological advancements have altered various lines of economic activity, ranging from trade, transport, and education to payment systems. He shared this during the launch of the 2026 Economic Census in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, on Wednesday.
“This shift has given rise to new business models and transaction patterns that need to be fully documented to accurately reflect current economic conditions,” said Dadad.
According to Dadang, economic activities previously dominated by conventional transactions are increasingly shifting towards digital platforms. This phenomenon is evident in the massive use of marketplaces, online services, non-cash payments via QRIS, and trends such as digital gold investment.
This rapid change serves as both a challenge and the primary reason for BPS to organise the 2026 Economic Census. The census is designed to capture all business actors to ensure they remain relevant to modern developments.
Regarding the data collection method, BPS will employ a direct or door-to-door approach. This method was chosen to reach all business actors, including those operating within the digital ecosystem, who are often difficult to identify through conventional approaches.
The 2026 Economic Census marks the fifth economic census conducted by BPS. This activity is a mandate of Law Number 16 of 1997 concerning Statistics.
Dadang emphasised that the success of this census is not the sole responsibility of BPS. Active collaboration is required from various parties, including central and local governments, business actors, associations, the media, and the wider community, to ensure optimal data collection.
In addition to local governments, the role of the mass media is considered strategic as a partner in disseminating information to the public. The active participation of all stakeholders is expected to guarantee the quality of the resulting data.
“The quality of census data will serve as the primary foundation for formulating economic development policies and developing the business world in the future,” concluded Dadang.
Unlike previous economic censuses, the 2026 Economic Census will not only record business actors but also households. The census will document businesses with physical locations as well as digital-based businesses and household economic activities to produce a more complete economic picture.
BPS has also ensured that the data from the 2026 Economic Census is strictly for statistical purposes and not for taxation.