Plants near some of the bauxite mines remove a mineral compound called alumina from the bauxite ore. This process is the first step in the production of aluminum. Jamaicans also mine gypsum, which is used in making plasterboard and other construction materials. Minerals are Jamaica's chief exports. Jamaica has plants that produce cement, chemicals, cigars, clothing, fertilizer, footwear, machinery, molasses, petroleum products, and rum.
Tourism provides much income for the nation.
The leading tourist centers in Jamaica include Kingston, Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios. Jamaica's chief trading partners are the United Kingdom, the United States, and Venezuela. It is also a member of other international trade and development organizations. Jamaica has a good road network. But the country has an average of only about 1 automobile for every 15 people.