The U.S. Census Bureau collect data to measure the economy

WASHINGTON (Dow Jones)--The U.S. Census Bureau will mail forms to 4.4 million businesses this week to collect data needed to measure the economy.

The bureau held a news conference Monday to urge businesses to complete the forms and return them by Feb. 12. Businesses that receive an economic census form are mandated by law to complete and return it.

Martin Regalia, chief economist for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said the data collected provide firms with information on their competitors, suppliers and customers.

"This data is vital for planning future investment," he said. "It's not just the law, it's good business."

-By Jeff Bater, Dow Jones Newswires; 202 862 9249; jeff.bater@dowjones.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
December 17, 2007 11:35 ET (16:35 GMT)