Industry
Mining is a major industry in Bolivia. Bolivia has long been one of the world producers of tin. Most of the tin mines are located in Oruro. In 2000 the mines put out 12,464 metric tons of tin. Gold, zinc, antimony, lead, tungsten and silver are also mined. There are expectations of developing Bolivia ' s large iron reserves. El Mutun, a 40,000 metric ton deposit located close to the Brazilian border, is considered one of the largest in the world. About 80,000 Bolivians still depend on mining for their livelihood. Petroleum and natural gas are now important in the Bolivian economy, making up 5.6 percent. In 1998, petroleum production was 12,628,000 barrels and Natural gas production in 1998 was 109,673 million cubic feet of which 99 percent was from private enterprise. The manufacturing industry consisted of nine subsectors-- food, beverages, and tobacco; textiles, garments, and leather goods; chemicals and plastics; timber, wood products, and furniture; paper products; nonmetallic minerals; basic metal industries; metal production, equipment, and machinery; and other manufacturing. Many producers who were involved in manufacturing and related activities were classified as part of the informal sector. The manufacturing sector played a minor role in the economy. The manufacturing industry represents 16.8 percent of the GDP. In 1997, according to the Bolivian Statistical Institute, there were 1,725 manufacturing enterprises with at least 5 workers, altogether employing 52,000 people. This number represents 15 percent of the Bolivian labor force. The 330 manufacturers that had over 50 employees accounted for 36,000 workers. Many manufacturers ran only small artisan shops, and most employed fewer than ten workers.