FAO statistics has implemented structured and comprehensive metadata that can be useful not only for statisticians who compile, validate and analyse the data, but also for users who access and use the data. Within FAOSTAT the metadata system enhances understanding of any given data item – by managing the documentation of related concepts and definitions, its source, the history of its values and the methodology used in its collection.

Classifications

To promote consistency and comparability of information at the world level, FAO statistics provides national statistical offices with internationally recognized definitions, concepts and classifications.

Commodities and agricultural inputs

» Search the FAOSTAT Commodity List (FCL)

The FCL covers commodities and agricultural inputs used in FAOSTAT including crops, livestock and derived products, fertilizers, pesticides and machinery. All information in the FCL is searchable (including codes, titles, scientific and common names, definitions and correspondences). You can search by codes and keyword, and shows correspondences between the FCL, CPC and HS.

In cooperation with the CountrySTAT project, the database contains the links to some national product lists and correspondences to the FCL. Please note that this database is a work in progress. Your feedback and comments are welcome. Email us at fcl-database@fao.org.

» Food items (commodities) in English, French and Spanish 

Land use

» Definitions and classification of land use and irrigation

Publications on statistical methods

Comprehensive publications on statistical methods and standards in agricultural statistics are available in FAO's Statistical Development Series. These publications cover Agricultural Census methods and standards, Sample Survey Methods for Agricultural Surveys, the World Census of Agriculture and the System of Economic Accounts for food and agriculture.