II.

Economy

Brussels is at the heart of the Belgian railway system, and is linked by canal to the national network of inland waterways and to the sea. The city's port area is situated in the north near Vilvoorde. Among the chief exports are nails, iron, marble, coal, candles, glass, and sugar. Imports include minerals, palm oil, and coffee. The city has long been known for the production of fine lace and for tapestry weaving. Other industries include printing, brewing, distilling, sugar refining, iron and brass casting, and the manufacture of textiles, electronic equipment, and furniture.