Reform at Chinaʹs National Bureau of Statistics under Ma Jiantang 2008–2013

Ma Jiantang has headed Chinaʹs National Bureau of Statistics since September 2008. I review his career before arriving at the NBS, major reforms introduced in his first five years, shortcomings that remain in Chinaʹs statistical system and alternatives to the official data that are springing up. Although Mr. Ma has accelerated the NBS reform agenda, significant weaknesses remain, calling into question everything from the true level of unemployment to the share of consumption and investment in gross domestic product, and opening a space for alternative providers to step in as sources of essential information on Chinaʹs economy.