The north is far more industrialized than the south and remains relatively poor and backward. The main agricultural products are grains, rice, vegetables, olives, tomatoes, grapes, nuts, citrus fruits, peaches and figs. Tobacco, cotton and hemp are also grown. Fishing is an important industry and the catch includes anchovies, sardines, tuna, octopus and shellfish. One natural resource for which Italy is particularly famous is marble.
Italian marble is exported all over the world for use in many types of buildings.
Italy is a member of the European Union . It was one of the six founders of the European Economic Community in 1957. Exports of food products, such as pasta, wine and prepared tomatoes are important to the Italian economy. Tourism is also a major earner, with visitors drawn by Italy's cultural heritage and its wide range of holiday opportunities - from winter sports to lakes, mountains and beaches. THE ARTS Italy has a notable artistic heritage especially in painting, sculpture and music.