Social Accounting Matrices (SAM)

A Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) is a detailed table that captures the economic transactions within a country. It records how money flows between households, businesses, government, and the rest of the world, showing income, spending, and production. Think of it as a snapshot that illustrates the interconnections of an economy, helping policymakers analyze how different sectors interact, assess economic policies, and understand the distribution of income. SAMs provide a comprehensive picture of the economic structure, aiding in informed decision-making for sustainable development.