Industry

Mineral resources in the Yemen have not been accurately assessed or fully exploited, but are thought to be large. Copper deposits were found near Ta'izz in 1969 and oil was discovered in 1972. It is known that further rich mineral deposits exist, chiefly of zinc, iron, lead, gold, silver, copper, sulphur and nickel.

In times gone by, iron deposits were utilized in a minor way in local industries such as the making of swords and knives. Today, salt is mined at Salif, where deposits are thought to total 25 million tonnes.

Manufacturing industries in Northern Yemen are light. These industries produce cement, paints, metal and cotton products. Other local industries consist of tanning, spinning, weaving and handicrafts.