Productive Capacities Index: 3rd Generation

The Productive Capacities Index (PCI) is a composite index developed by UNCTAD to assess productive capacity gaps and constraints across countries and regions. The third-generation PCI covers 195 economies from 2000 to 2024 and follows internationally recognized methodologies for composite indices. Created in response to mandates from UNCTAD member States and ECOSOC, it supports evidence-based policymaking aimed at strengthening productive capacities, driving structural economic transformation, and advancing sustainable development. Productive capacities are recognized as essential in major international development frameworks, including programmes for least developed, landlocked, and small island developing States. Since its launch in 2021, the PCI has undergone continuous refinement. The 2023 update improved data handling and computational processes, while the 2025 update expanded country and time coverage and introduced methodological enhancements. These include an automated data pipeline, improved imputation techniques, seed-averaged estimation with confidence intervals, and a new maritime transport indicator. Together, these improvements enhance the PCI’s reliability, transparency, and value as a tool for policy analysis and development planning.