These include jewelry, silverware, textiles, primary and fabricated metals, machinery, electrical equipment, and rubber and plastic items. Tourism is also important. Agriculture is relatively unimportant to the economy. Most of the farmland is used for dairying and poultry raising, and the state is known for its Rhode Island Red chickens. Principal crops are nursery and greenhouse items.
Commercial fishing is an important but declining industry.
Naval facilities at Newport contribute to the state's income. Licensed from Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.