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Agriculture employs about 45% of the workforce and accounts for about one fourth of the gross national product. The chief commercial crops are coffee, cotton, and sugarcane; these, together with meat, are the largest exports. Timber, gold, and seafood are also exported. The principal manufactured goods are chemicals, textiles, and processed foods. The country's economy was severely affected by a hurricane in 1998.
Nicaragua is a republic. Executive power is held by the president, who is popularly elected for a five-year term. Members of the unicameral legislature are also elected for five years. The country is divided into 15 administrative departments and two autonomous regions.
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