Page "Economy of the Dominican Republic" Paragraph 2

Although the service sector has recently overtaken agriculture as the leading employer of Dominicans ( due principally to growth in tourism and Free Trade Zones ), agriculture remains the most important sector in terms of domestic consumption and is in second place ( behind mining ) in terms of export earnings.

Tourism accounts for more than $ 1 billion in annual earnings.

Free trade zone earnings and tourism are the fastest-growing export sectors.

According to a 1999 International Monetary Fund report, remittances from Dominican Americans, are estimated to be about $ 1. 5 billion per year.

Most of these funds are used to cover basic household needs such as shelter, food, clothing, health care and education.

Secondarily, remittances have financed small businesses and other productive activities.