The World Input-Output Database: Content, Concepts and Applications

This article describes the contents and construction of the World Input-Output Database (WIOD). This database contains annual time-series of world inputoutput tables, covering the period from 1995 onwards. Underlying concepts, construction methods and data sources are considered. In addition, the WIOD provides data on labour and capital inputs for forty countries, making it useful for a wide range of applications. We illustrate this by analysing recent trends in international production fragmentation, competitiveness and patterns of specialisation. We give guidance to prudent use and discuss possible improvements and extensions.