Social accounting matrices : basic aspects and main steps for estimation

A Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) is a comprehensive and economy-wide database recording data about all transactions between economic agents in a specific economy for a specific period of time. A SAM extends the classical Input-Output framework, including the complete circular flow of income in the economy. SAMs interest is twofold: they are the standard database for most whole economy modellers as they provide data for economic modelling (multi-sectorial linear models or the more complex Computable General Equilibrium -CGE- Models) and they show a complete but intuitive snapshot of the economy at hand. This report introduces the concept of a Social Accounting Matrix, describes its structure in detail and shows the basics in the elaboration of a SAM, indicating some extensions and modifications.