Computable general equilibrium (CGE) models are a class of economic models that use actual economic data to estimate how an economy might react to changes in policy, technology or other external factors. A CGE model consists of equations describing model variables and uses a detailed database consistent with these model equations. Using these neoclassical equations, optimal behaviour can be modelled. For example, we can assume cost-minimizing behaviour by producers, minimize average-cost pricing, and maximise welfare. Most CGE models conform only loosely to the theoretical general equilibrium paradigm.