Singapore's soil is not very productive and the amount of land available for cultivation is relatively small. Agriculture is therefore of limited importance. Fishing is more significant, as is to be expected on an island. However, almost all Singapore's food has to be imported. Tourism is an important earner of foreign exchange for the economy.
Most visitors come for short stays, stopover or conferences.
THE ARTS Singapore's multicultural heritage gives its arts scene great variety. Performances are on outdoor stages close to temples and markets and are more frequent during the main festivals. The opera performances include, as well as drama and singing, mime, dance, acrobatics and fencing. Western music is best represented by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, a world-class ensemble which is often supported by visiting international soloists and conductors. Chinese music has a three thousand year history.