The World Development Indicators (WDI) The World Development Indicators (WDI) is a premier cross-country database compiled by the World Bank, offering a comprehensive collection of development data from a wide range of international sources. It provides a vast array of over 1,400 time-series indicators for more than 200 economies, covering crucial aspects of global development. The indicators are organized into six key analytical areas: World View, People, Environment, Economy, States and Markets, and Global Links. As a vital resource for policymakers, researchers, and the public, the WDI serves as an essential tool for monitoring global trends, analyzing economic and social progress, and evaluating the effectiveness of development policies. Indicator Name Description 1. Poverty headcount ratio at $6.85 a day (2017 PPP) (% of population) The percentage of the population living on less than $6.85 a day at 2017 international prices. 2. Gini index (World Bank estimate...
.png "The Economic Role of Agriculture: A Global Perspective")
The Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Value Added
The value added from the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors serves as a crucial economic indicator, reflecting a country's reliance on these primary industries.
When expressed as a percentage of a nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), it highlights the direct contribution of these activities to the overall economy. A higher percentage often indicates that a significant portion of the workforce and economic output is tied to farming, forestry, and fisheries. While this can signify a strong foundational sector, it may also suggest an economy that is in the process of diversifying. The following table highlights countries where these sectors have shown the most significant annual growth.
Leading Countries in Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP)
| Country | Annual Growth (%) | Rank |
| Korea (the Republic of) | 14.90 | 1 |
| Nicaragua | 8.99 | 2 |
| Sri Lanka | 7.62 | 3 |
| Philippines (the) | 6.69 | 4 |
| Honduras | 6.52 | 5 |
| Guyana | 5.55 | 6 |
| Ecuador | 5.36 | 7 |
| Bangladesh | 5.20 | 8 |
| Peru | 4.99 | 9 |
| Bolivia (Plurinational State of) | 4.88 | 10 |
In conclusion, the data presented underscores the pivotal role that agriculture, forestry, and fishing play in the economic structures of many nations. The high growth rates observed in these countries suggest a robust and dynamic primary sector. However, as global economies evolve, many countries are actively working to diversify their economic bases. Therefore, while these sectors are currently a major driver of growth, their relative contribution to GDP may shift over time as industrial and service sectors expand and mature.
.png "The Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing in South Korea's Economy")
The Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing in South Korea's Economy
Over the past several decades, South Korea has undergone a remarkable transformation from an agrarian society to a highly industrialized and technologically advanced nation. This rapid economic development has been accompanied by a significant and steady decline in the relative contribution of the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
In the early years of its economic growth, the primary sector, which includes agriculture, forestry, and fishing, was a major pillar of the South Korean economy. However, as the focus shifted to manufacturing and services, the share of these traditional industries in the national economy has plummeted. The shift reflects a broader global trend where economic maturity is often correlated with a smaller primary sector and a larger services sector.
The decline in the value added from agriculture, forestry, and fishing is not just a statistical phenomenon; it represents profound societal and economic changes. The rural population has decreased as people have moved to urban centers for better employment opportunities. The average age of farmers has risen, creating concerns about the future of the agricultural workforce. Land dedicated to farming has also shrunk, as it has been converted for industrial and residential use.
Despite this decline in relative size, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors still play a crucial role in South Korea. They are vital for food security, preservation of the natural landscape, and maintaining traditional rural communities. The government has implemented various policies to support these industries, including direct payment programs, subsidies, and promotion of high-value crops and processed foods. The sector has also been modernizing through mechanization and the integration of advanced technologies like Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve productivity and sustainability.
The following table provides a snapshot of the declining share of agriculture, forestry, and fishing in South Korea's GDP over time.
| Year | Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP) |
| 1970 | 29% |
| Early 1990s | Below 5% |
| Early 2000s | Below 3% |
| 2010 | 2.4% |
| 2017 | 1.96% |
| 2022 | 1.64% |
| 2023 | 1.6% |
Note: The data presented is based on various sources and may reflect slight variations due to different methodologies and data revisions.
In conclusion, the South Korean economic narrative is a powerful illustration of a nation's successful transition from an agrarian society to a global economic leader. The "Miracle on the Han River" saw the country deliberately shift its focus and resources away from agriculture, forestry, and fishing toward manufacturing, technology, and services. This strategic transformation, which began in earnest in the 1960s, has reshaped the national economy and society, significantly reducing the primary sector's GDP contribution. While agriculture's statistical share has diminished, its role in food security and cultural heritage remains important, prompting the government to support its modernization. South Korea's experience stands as a model of how rapid economic development and strategic policy can fundamentally alter a country's economic structure, proving that a decreasing reliance on traditional primary industries is a key hallmark of advanced economic maturity.
.png "The Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing in Nicaragua's")
The Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing in Nicaragua's
Nicaragua, the largest country in Central America, has an economy deeply rooted in its primary sectors. Unlike many developed nations where these sectors have diminished in economic importance, agriculture, forestry, and fishing remain a cornerstone of Nicaragua's GDP, a primary source of employment, and a crucial driver of its export economy.
The country's fertile land and abundant natural resources, including a long coastline, have historically made it a major producer of agricultural goods. Key exports such as coffee, beef, sugar, peanuts, and seafood are vital for generating foreign exchange. The sector's resilience and its direct impact on the livelihoods of a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas, underscore its strategic importance.
However, the sector is also highly vulnerable. It is susceptible to external shocks, such as fluctuating global commodity prices, and is particularly exposed to natural disasters like hurricanes and droughts, which can severely impact production and rural economies. Despite these challenges, the government and international organizations have been working on initiatives to promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve productivity, and enhance resilience to climate change. This includes modernizing farming techniques, diversifying crops, and strengthening the agricultural supply chain.
The following table highlights the significant and consistent contribution of the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors to Nicaragua's GDP over the years.
| Year | Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP) |
| 1996 | 21.41% |
| 2017 | 15.47% |
| 2023 | 15.33% |
| 2024 | 14.41% |
Note: Data from different sources may vary slightly due to different methodologies and data revisions. The figures presented here are sourced from various reports, including those from the World Bank and Trading Economics.
In conclusion, while South Korea's economic narrative is one of industrial and technological ascendancy that has relegated agriculture, forestry, and fishing to a small part of its GDP, Nicaragua's story highlights the enduring and fundamental role these sectors play in its economic and social fabric. These two contrasting examples underscore how the relative importance of primary industries is a key indicator of a nation's stage of economic development, revealing divergent paths in the global economy.
.png "The Sri Lanka's Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing")
The Sri Lanka's Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing
Sri Lanka, an island nation with a rich agricultural heritage, has long relied on its primary sector for economic stability and sustenance. Historically, agriculture, forestry, and fishing have been the backbone of the country's economy, providing employment to a large portion of the population and generating significant export revenue from commodities like tea, rubber, and coconut. However, as Sri Lanka has sought to diversify its economy and move towards a more industrialized and service-oriented model, the relative contribution of these traditional sectors to the nation's GDP has experienced a gradual but notable decline.
Despite this decline, the primary sector's importance extends beyond its mere statistical contribution to GDP. It remains a vital source of food security, especially for the rural population, and a key factor in poverty reduction efforts. The sector's resilience has been tested by external factors, including economic crises and climate change, which have highlighted both its vulnerabilities and its enduring significance. Government policies have, at various times, focused on either protecting domestic producers or promoting exports, reflecting the ongoing challenge of balancing food self-sufficiency with global market competitiveness.
The following table illustrates the historical trend of agriculture, forestry, and fishing's value added as a percentage of Sri Lanka's GDP, showcasing the sector's evolving role in the nation's economic landscape.
| Year | Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP) |
| 1974 | 33.53% |
| 1998 | 17% |
| 2012 | 7.45% |
| 2017 | 7.7% |
| 2023 | 8.12% |
| 2024 | 8.3% |
Note: The data presented is based on various sources and may reflect slight variations due to different methodologies and data revisions. The figures for recent years show a slight increase, which can be attributed to economic shifts and a renewed focus on the primary sector during periods of economic crisis.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka's economic journey is a microcosm of the global shift from agrarian to industrialized and service-based economies. While the share of agriculture, forestry, and fishing in the nation's GDP has decreased over time, its societal and strategic importance remains paramount. The sector continues to be a critical source of livelihoods, a bulwark against food insecurity, and a key component of the country's export profile. Moving forward, the challenge for Sri Lanka will be to continue modernizing these vital industries, making them more resilient and productive, while also fostering growth in the service and industrial sectors to ensure a balanced and sustainable economic future.
.png "The Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing in the Philippines")
The Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing in the Philippines
The Philippines, an archipelago nation, has an economy historically and culturally intertwined with its rich natural resources. The agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors have long been a foundational pillar of the country's economy, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of its population and contributing a substantial share to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, over the past few decades, the country has undergone a significant economic transformation, with a notable shift towards industrialization and a burgeoning services sector. This has led to a steady, though at times volatile, decline in the relative importance of the primary sector in the overall economy.
Despite its diminishing share of the GDP, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector remains critically important. It is a major source of employment, particularly in rural areas, and is essential for national food security. The sector is a major producer of crops like rice, corn, and coconuts, and is a key exporter of various agricultural products. The government has undertaken various initiatives to modernize these industries, improve productivity, and enhance their resilience to external shocks, such as natural disasters and climate change, which pose a constant threat to the country's food supply and rural livelihoods.
The following table illustrates the changing contribution of agriculture, forestry, and fishing to the Philippines' GDP over time, reflecting the country's journey of economic development and diversification.
| Year | Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP) |
| 1974 | 27.63% |
| 1980 | 25% |
| 2017 | 9.7% |
| 2021 | 10% |
| 2023 | 9.397% |
| 2024 | 9.08% |
| 2025 | 8.0% |
Note: Data from different sources may vary slightly due to different methodologies and data revisions. The figures for recent years are estimates and may be subject to change.
In conclusion, the Philippines' economic landscape is a narrative of evolution, moving from a heavy reliance on its primary sectors to a more diversified economy. While the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector's share of GDP has decreased, its fundamental role in employment, food security, and rural development cannot be overstated. The sector faces ongoing challenges, but its continued modernization and strategic importance ensure that it will remain a vital component of the Philippine economy for the foreseeable future.
.png "The Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing in Honduras's Economy")
The Role of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing in Honduras's Economy
Honduras, a country in the heart of Central America, has an economy heavily reliant on its natural resources. The agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors have been, and continue to be, a critical component of the nation's economic structure. Blessed with diverse climates and fertile lands, Honduras is a major producer and exporter of key agricultural goods, with coffee and bananas being historical staples. This primary sector not only contributes a significant portion of the country's GDP but also provides a major source of employment, particularly in rural areas where the majority of the population resides.
The sector's importance is also evident in its role in generating foreign exchange, which is vital for the country's economic health. However, this reliance also makes the Honduran economy vulnerable to external factors, such as volatile international commodity prices and, most critically, climate-related shocks. Hurricanes, tropical storms, and droughts can have devastating impacts on agricultural production, threatening both livelihoods and national food security. Despite these challenges, the sector has shown resilience and continues to be a central focus for development strategies aimed at improving productivity, diversifying crops, and fostering sustainable practices to mitigate climate risks.
The following table highlights the substantial contribution of agriculture, forestry, and fishing to the Honduran GDP over time, illustrating its persistent importance in the nation's economy.
| Year | Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP) |
| 1960 | 33.81% |
| 2005 | 39.2% |
| 2017 | 14.2% |
| 2024 | 11.2% |
| 2025 | 11.0% (est.) |
Note: Data from different sources may vary slightly due to different methodologies and data revisions. The figures for recent years and the forecast are based on available economic reports and projections.
In conclusion, while Honduras, like many developing nations, is experiencing a gradual diversification of its economy, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors remain a foundational pillar. Their significant contribution to GDP, employment, and exports underscores their central role in the country's development. The ongoing challenges posed by climate change and market volatility require continued strategic investment in these sectors to enhance their resilience and ensure a more stable and prosperous future for Honduras.
.png "The Enduring Agricultural Backbone of Guyana's Economy")
The Enduring Agricultural Backbone of Guyana's Economy
Guyana, a nation rich in natural resources on the northeastern coast of South America, has long had an economy significantly shaped by its agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors. Historically, these primary industries have been the bedrock of the country, providing livelihoods for a substantial portion of its population and driving much of its export earnings, particularly through commodities like sugar, rice, and timber. While the discovery and increasing prominence of oil in recent years are rapidly transforming Guyana's economic landscape, the traditional primary sectors continue to play a vital role, especially in terms of employment and food security for many Guyanese communities.
Despite the burgeoning oil sector, agriculture, forestry, and fishing remain integral to Guyana's economic diversity and sustainable development. These sectors support rural economies, contribute to local food production, and are deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the nation. Efforts to modernize agricultural practices, promote sustainable forestry, and manage fisheries responsibly are ongoing, aiming to enhance productivity and ensure the long-term viability of these crucial industries alongside the country's newer economic drivers.
The following table illustrates the historical and recent contributions of agriculture, forestry, and fishing to Guyana's GDP, providing a perspective on their evolving significance in the national economy amidst new developments.
| Year | Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP) |
| 1995 | 21.2% |
| 2010 | 18.5% |
| 2017 | 16.5% |
| 2023 | 12.5% (Estimate) |
| 2024 | 11.8% (Projected) |
Note: Data presented may vary across different sources due to variations in methodologies and reporting. Recent figures, particularly estimates and projections, may reflect the increasing impact of the oil sector on overall GDP calculations.
In conclusion, while Guyana stands at the cusp of significant economic transformation driven by its oil resources, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors remain a crucial and enduring aspect of its economy. Their continued importance for employment, food security, and the sustainable development of rural communities underscores the need for ongoing investment and strategic planning to ensure their continued contribution alongside the nation's evolving economic profile.
.png "A Comparative Analysis of Agriculture's Role in Global Economies")
A Comparative Analysis of Agriculture's Role in Global Economies
The economic trajectories of nations are as varied as their geographies, and a powerful indicator of this divergence is the role of the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors in their respective economies. The cases of South Korea and Nicaragua highlight a stark contrast: the former's narrative is one of a rapid and successful transition from an agrarian base to an industrial and technological powerhouse, a journey that saw the primary sector's contribution to GDP shrink to a mere fraction. Nicaragua, on the other hand, exemplifies an economy where agriculture remains a foundational pillar, reflecting a continued reliance on traditional sectors for employment and exports.
The experiences of Sri Lanka and the Philippines offer a more nuanced view. Both island nations have been on a path of economic diversification, resulting in a gradual decrease in the agricultural sector's GDP share. However, these nations also illustrate the sector's enduring importance for food security and rural livelihoods, a significance that transcends its diminishing statistical value. In times of economic instability, as seen in recent years for Sri Lanka, the primary sector can even experience a renewed focus and a temporary increase in its share, underscoring its role as a safety net.
Finally, the cases of Honduras and Guyana reveal economies in flux. Honduras, a traditional agricultural exporter, continues to rely heavily on its primary sector, but its vulnerability to climate-related shocks highlights the need for modernization and resilience. Guyana, meanwhile, is at a unique inflection point. While its agricultural sector has long been the economic backbone, the burgeoning oil industry is rapidly altering its economic landscape, raising questions about the future balance between traditional industries and new sources of wealth.
In conclusion, a comparative analysis of these diverse economies reveals that the role of agriculture is not a one-size-fits-all metric. It is a powerful lens through which to view a country's stage of development, its strategic priorities, and its unique vulnerabilities. Whether a nation has successfully transitioned beyond an agrarian economy, remains deeply reliant on it, or is in the midst of a transformative shift, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors continue to be inextricably linked to national identity, food security, and the well-being of its people.