Economy
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Massachusetts is traditionally
industrial, and, with its predominantly urban population,
is one of the most densely settled states in the nation.
Its many, diverse manufactures include electrical and
electronic equipment, industrial equipment, technical
instruments, plastic products, paper and paper products,
machinery, tools, and metal and rubber products. Shipping,
printing, and publishing are also important, and the
jewelry industry dates from before the American Revolution.
Leading
agricultural products include cranberries, greenhouse
and nursery items, apples, and milk and other dairy
goods. Commercial fishing, chiefly from Gloucester and
New Bedford, and shellfishing have declined in recent
years. Lime, clay, sand, gravel, and stone dominate
the state's small mineral output.
High-technology
research and development, finance, and trade are all
prominent in the commonwealth's economy. The service
sector, in which tourism is primary, now employs over
one third of Massachusetts workers.
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