Malta has no permanent rivers or lakes, and natural vegetation is sparse. About half of the total land is cultivated, but because of poor soils, productivity is low. Salt and limestone are the only minerals. Until 1979 the economy was dependent on a British military base and naval docks. When they closed, the government of Malta successfully diversified the economy.
Tourism is now a major industry and source of foreign exchange.
Construction and the repair of ships is also vital to the economy. Other industries include food processing, winemaking, and the manufacture of textiles, garments, and leather footwear. Exports include textiles, garments, shoes, and plastics. Germany, Italy, and Great Britain are the chief trading partners. There are no railways.