lotus

previous page: 4.2.1 Finland Geography, Climate, Vegetation
  
page up: Scandinavia Countries FAQ
  
next page: 4.2.3 Finland Population

4.2.2 Finland Economy




Description

This article is from the Nordic countries FAQ, by Antti Lahelma and Johan Olofsson, with numerous contributions by others.

4.2.2 Finland Economy

Forests are Finland's most important natural resource, and paper,
timber, etc. are a major source of national income. The granite
bedrock contains a diversity of minor mineral deposits, including
copper, nickel, iron, zinc, chromium, lead, and iron pyrites. In
recent years, diamonds have been found in eastern Finland, but they
aren't mined yet. In addition, limestone, granite and sand are
quarried for building materials.

Wood processing has traditionally been the most important economy. The
metal and engineering industries have developed rapidly and today are
the largest source of industrial employment. Since the 1950s
large-scale swamp drainage, fertilizing, and reforestation have
improved woord production. The state owns 20% of the forests; the rest
are privately controlled. The chemical, graphics, and food industries
are also significant to the economy, followed by textile and
electrochemical enterprises. Mining activity has decreased in
importance, although Finland still produces one-half of the copper and
nickel needed for the domestic market. In 1960, 30% of Finland's work
force was engaged in farming; by 1990 the figure was less than 10%,
and only 7% of the total land area was cultivated. Nevertheless, the
agricultural sector produces a surplus of dairy products, meat, and
eggs. Wheat and rye are the most important bread grains; other major
crops include hay, potatoes, oats, and barley. Finland's climate and
small farms favor dairy and livestock production, which account for
most of the farm income. The problems created by overproduction have
led to soil banking (a policy of purposely leaving farmland
uncultivated) and reforestation.

 

Continue to:













TOP
previous page: 4.2.1 Finland Geography, Climate, Vegetation
  
page up: Scandinavia Countries FAQ
  
next page: 4.2.3 Finland Population