In the mid-1990s, Moldovan primary and secondary schools enrolled about 733,000 students. More than 95 percent of the population is literate. Moldova is a leading producer of grapes, and wine making is a major industry. Other crops are wheat, sugar beets, vegetables, and fruit. Manufactures include processed foods, agricultural machinery, clothing and textiles, and consumer appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and televisions.
Mineral resources are meager.
Air Moldova, Air Moldova International, and Moldavian Airlines are the national air carriers, with Chisinau the main international gateway. The leading daily newspapers are published in the capital. The head of government is the prime minister, who chairs the council of ministers. The unicameral parliament consists of 101 members elected to 4-year terms. Suffrage is universal at age 18.