| Economy - overview: | Major resources are limestone, a favorable geographic location, and a productive labor force. Malta produces only about 20% of its food needs, has limited fresh water supplies, and has no domestic energy sources. The economy is dependent on foreign trade, manufacturing (especially electronics and textiles), and tourism. Continued sluggishness in the European economy is holding back exports, tourism, and overall growth. |
| GDP - per capita | $18,800 (2005 est.) |
| GDP - real growth rate (%) | 1.4% (2005 est.) |
| Agriculture - products | potatoes, cauliflower, grapes, wheat, barley, tomatoes, citrus, cut flowers, green peppers; pork, milk, poultry, eggs |
| GDP - composition by sector (%) | agriculture: 3%, industry: 23%, services: 74% (2003 est.) |
| Industries | tourism; electronics, ship building and repair, construction; food and beverages, textiles, footwear, clothing, tobacco |
| Economic aid - recipient | NA |
| Debt - external | $130 million (1997) |
| Population below poverty line (%) | NA |
| Labor force - by occupation (%) | agriculture 5%, industry 24%, services 71% (1999 est.) |
Environment, Land use / Resources, Economy, Population / Demographics, Infrastructure, Health -- CIA World Factbook, 2005
