Understanding the Consumer Price Survey

The Consumer Price Survey is a crucial statistical activity aimed at recording transaction prices between retailers and consumers. The data collected from this survey forms the basis for calculating the Consumer Price Index (CPI), with percentage changes over time serving as indicators of inflation or deflation — key metrics in assessing economic performance.

Beginning in 2024, the CPI is conducted across 150 regency/municipality in Indonesia, including 38 provincial capitals and 112 other regions. The survey involves the use of eight types of questionnaires, each with specific enumeration schedules: HK-1.1 (weekly), HK-1.2 (biweekly), HK-2.1 to HK-6 (monthly). Each document targets different commodities in line with its frequency of data collection.

Data collection is carried out at three main types of markets: traditional markets, modern markets, and online markets. These markets are selected purposively, based on specific criteria such as location within the administrative boundaries, size and popularity, variety of goods sold, and operational consistency.

In addition to markets, the CPI survey includes respondents and quality samples. Respondents consist of retail traders or outlets within or outside the selected markets. Meanwhile, quality samples are chosen based on their popularity among consumers, wide availability, and consistent presence in the market.

The CPI survey plays a vital role in providing accurate, timely data to support economic analysis and policymaking at both regional and national levels.