Other agricultural crops, such as coconuts, citrus and oil tree crops have assumed increasing importance during the 1970's. Dominica's largest and possibly most valuable natural resource is its timber. If the right means could be found to exploit its timber reserves, this would provide a valuable boost to the economy. Lominica's tourist industry is very small and prospects for expansion are not good. The most important part of the small
The processing of
manufacturing sector is its agro-industry. citrus, the manufacturing of coconutsproducts and the distillation of essential oils account for the major part of manufacturing activity.
The Government of Dominica is facing a severe budgetary deficit and is currently receiving budgetary aid from the United Kingdom.
Independence
A constitutional conference was held in London in May 1977 with the result that Dominica becomes an independent republic within the Commonwealth on 3 November 1978.