Estimation of Regional GDP in Cambodia Using Nighttime Light Data

抄録

To objectively estimate inter-provincial freight volumes and establish port hinterlands in developing countries, reliable data is essential. However, many developing countries lack regional GDP statistics, making it challenging to achieve high accuracy or even conduct such estimations. This study aims to estimate provincial GDP in Cambodia by analyzing the relationship between nighttime light data, which is consistent and quantitative across time and regions, and economic indicators. Multiple regression models are constructed using nighttime light data. The results highlighted the importance of considering regional characteristics in applying these models. Additionally, using average light intensity, defined as total light intensity per unit area, as an explanatory variable and focusing on countries with similar economic scales improves estimation accuracy. This demonstrates the utility of nighttime light data to supplement the lack of economic data in Cambodia.