The aim of the AEG is to assist the ISWGNA in resolving issues on the research agenda of the SNA and emerging research issues, and to assist the ISWGNA in the review of the SNA implementation programme. The composition of the AEG reflects the global community representing all regions in the world and comprises 17 members (not including the five representatives of the ISWGNA organisations). The period for which a member is invited to serve on the AEG would depend on the particular issue that the ISWGNA need to consider, but would be at least for 3 years.

The AEG was initially formed in 2002 to assist the ISWGNA with the update of the 1993 SNA. At its 41st session in 2010 the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC) re-established the AEG on National Accounts to support the ISWGNA in its work. The terms of reference for the AEG are incorporated in the governance arrangements of the ISWGNA.