Agriculture and fishery production continue to play a significant role in the Thai economy. Rice remains the country's most important crop. More than half of the population depends on the cultivation of rice for their livelihood, although the percentage is decreasing. Thailand's manufacturing sector has grown tremendously in recent years. The recent realignment of currency values in East Asia has made Thailand an attractive site for investment, especially by Japanese and Taiwanese manufacturers.
Textiles are the country's largest export item.
Integrated circuits, footwear, jewelry, and ball bearings also are important manufactured exports. A wide range of factories and assembly plants produce such goods as electric and electronic appliances, building supplies, and automobiles for the Thai domestic market. A valid passport is required. Customs prohibits the export of religious images, regardless of the age of the item. A Thai government permit is required to take antiques out of the country.