The climate is variable, with hot, dry desert in most of the country, temperate conditions in the northwest, and arctic conditions in the north. Pakistan is susceptible to frequent floods and earthquakes, and is plagued by deforestation, soil erosion, desertification, water pollution, and limited fresh-water resources. There are about 140.5 million people in Pakistan, most of whom live in poverty in the rural areas. Most Pakistanis are Muslims. The industrial sector is growing, and manufacturing now generates half the country's exports, which include textile yarn, cotton, cotton fabrics, and leather.
Industry is centred on cotton textile manufacturing, food processing, tobacco, steel, and chemicals.
The development of natural gas, oil, and mineral deposits is helping to boost economic growth. Despite this economic progress, growth is uneven and widespread poverty persists, especially in rural areas. Public access to health, education, clean water, sanitation, and family planning remains low. Initiatives are being introduced to achieve economic reform, including the privatization of the banking system and the energy sector, as well as fiscal reforms to modernize and broaden the tax base. For more information on Pakistan, see the Pakistan Web pages, produced by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.