However, a series of political developments served to undermine the plan and it is only in recent years that some of the benefits are now being felt. Civil war and social unrest between 1994 and 1996 also inhibited economic growth.
Agriculture is concentrated in the fertile northern part of the country.
Livestock rearing and fishing, both of which occur throughout the country, are also important. Manufacturing industry is mainly involved in the production of construction materials, processed foods, tobacco, drinks and chemicals. The most important industrial activity, however, is oil and gas production. Yemeni reserves are modest by regional standards but, since the opening of the refining complex at Aden in 1994, the sector accounts for the majority of export earnings. Aden also hosts a newly established free-trade zone which is expected to move into surplus in 1999.