Bangladesh is among the most populous countries in the world. The population in 2010 was 148.7 million, nearly half of which was in rural areas. Agriculture covers 70% of the country’s land area.
Bangladesh has a rapidly developing market-based economy, which has grown at 6–7% per annal over the past few years. The service sector generated more than half of the country’s GDP, while nearly half of the people are engaged in the agricultural sector. Foreign exchange earnings come from remittances from overseas workers (mainly in the Middle East) and exports of garments and textiles. Shipbuilding and cane cultivation also contribute significantly to growth. Sound fiscal policies further encourage GDP growth. The per capital GDP (PPP) more than doubled, from $675 in 1995 to $1,652, in 2010.
The main produce is rice, along with jute, fish, fruits, and vegetables. Wheat production has increased in recent years. The poultry industry is expanding and has encouraged maize production. Other goods produced in the country are textiles, leather and leather goods,ceramics, and ready-made garments.