The abundance of fish around the islands is a major attraction for tourists. Industrial processing of sugar and pineapples, along with canning of fruit and fish provide employment. A proportion of the macadamia nut crop is used in a local candy factory which makes chocolate and macadamia sweets. Clothing and textiles are produced for export, Hawaii also has a publishing and printing industry. The large American military presence is a major contributor to the economy of Hawaii.
Tourism is the most important sector in the economy.
When direct flights to Hawaii from the American mainland became possible in 1936 the popularity of the Islands as a holiday destination increased dramatically. Today over 6 million tourists visit the Hawaiian Islands every year. The early ones, thought to have been carved about five hundred years ago show simple stick figures. Later variations become more naturalistic. Hawaiians were skilled wood carvers and boat builders.