Although the Indians are forbidden land ownership, they operate most of the sugar plantations. There are also small Chinese and white minorities. Fiji experiences tensions as a result of its diverse ethnic composition. Primary education is neither free nor compulsory, but the literacy rate is high.
Gold is the leading mineral product.
The underdeveloped industrial sector produces some consumer goods, garments, and food products. Fiji is trying to diversify exports and increase manufacturing. The fishing industry has grown rapidly. The prestige of Athens as a cultural center even after it had lost its political importance also made it a tourist attraction among Romans with pretensions to learning. By the 18th century the leisure time available to Europe's aristocracy led to a fashion for travel among the sons of the wealthier classes.