Zulia is the major cattle and oil-producing state. Guayana has the most important mineral and hydrocarbon reserves. Maracay, Valencia and Barquisimeto are the principal industrial cities. Tobacco and forestry are also important. Cattle are the principal livestock.
Petroleum production is the most important industry.
Basic resources also include diamonds, gold, zinc, copper, lead, silver, phosphates, manganese, natural gas, coal, bauxite, hydropower and titanium. Aluminium and iron ore are also major sources of export revenue. Two satellite ground stations are operational. Telex and facsimile facilities are available. The metric system is utilised.