IV.

Economy

Sicily is a principal source of the world supply of sulphur. Other minerals mined in the region include rock salt and asphalt. The petrochemical industry also figures in the economy of the island and is largely dependent on production in eastern Sicily, particularly in Catania and Syracuse and in Ragusa and Gela. Agriculture is still the predominant occupation of Sicilians; wheat is the most important crop. Cereal grains are grown on the larger estates in the interior and along the southern coast. Smaller holdings are devoted principally to growing grapes, almonds, olives, oranges, lemons, beans, and sumac, used in tanning and dyeing. The fisheries (tunny, sardine, coral, and sponge) are extensive; a quarter of Italy's fishing vessels sail from Sicily. Other occupations include producing wine and olive oil, canning fruit and vegetables, and preparing citric acid. Some glassware, metalware, and matches are produced in the larger cities. Sicily exports sulphur, fruits and vegetables, sumac, salt, wine, oil, and fish, and imports mainly grain, coal, and iron. Almost the entire trade is seaborne through the three principal ports, Palermo, Catania, and Messina. Tourism is also an important economic contributor.