Mangrove trees dominate coastal areas. Native Fijians, who were a minority in their own country at independence, are mainly of Melanesian stock. Although the Indians are forbidden land ownership, they operate most of the sugar plantations. There are also small Chinese and white minorities. Fiji experiences tensions as a result of its diverse ethnic composition.
Primary education is neither free nor compulsory, but the literacy rate is high.
Gold is the leading mineral product. The underdeveloped industrial sector produces some consumer goods, garments, and food products. Fiji is trying to diversify exports and increase manufacturing. The fishing industry has grown rapidly. During the first half of the 19th century, shipwrecked sailors and missionaries settled in Fiji.