Economy

Swaziland has excellent agricultural and ranching land. Sugarcane, grown on plantations, is the country's leading export. Other important crops are citrus fruits, rice, cotton, corn, sorghum, pineapples, and tobacco. Cattle, another major export, and goats are raised in large numbers. The Swazi engage primarily in subsistence farming on communally owned land that is allocated by chiefs. The pine and eucalyptus forests of the high veld yield timber and wood pulp. The country has several nature reserves, and tourism is being developed.

Swaziland's mineral resources include asbestos, coal, clay, and diamonds; stone quarrying is also important. Industry consists chiefly of food processing and the manufacture of clothing and light consumer goods. Many Swazis are employed in South Africa's mines and industries. Railroads connect with ports in South Africa, the country's main trading partner, and with Mozambique. Swaziland is a member of the Southern African Development Community.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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