The country a major producer and exporter of uranium. Other minerals include iron ore, natron, phosphate, salt, and tin. About 90 percent of Niger's people live by farming and herding. Niger's agricultural exports include cotton, peanuts, livestock, meat, and hides. Such crops as beans, cassava, millet, peas, rice, and sorghum are grown for food.
Farmers raise cattle, oxen, goats, and camels for food, export, and transport.
Poor transportation has hampered economic development in Niger. The country has no railroads, and most of its roads are not paved. Few Nigeriens own an automobile. Trucks carry freight, and people get around by buses or on foot. Niamey has an international airport.