All children receive compulsory basic education at comprehensive schools between the ages of 7 and 16. Last century Finland embarked on the road to industrialisation by harnessing its forest resources. The metal and engineering industry has long been Finland's leading branch of manufacturing. Other important branches are wood industry and hi-tech. The net wealth of Finnish households is close to the average for the European Union.
Unemployment is the most serious problem burdening the Finnish economy.
The balance of trade is clearly positive.