Long-staple cotton, alfalfa, citrus fruit, grain, and sorghum are the Southwest’s main crops. Copper mining, particularly in Arizona, where open-pit operations account for about two-thirds of the nation’s total annual production, has been important since the 19th century.

What crops are grown in the Southwest region?

The Southwest States grow diverse agricultural crops, including cotton, lettuce, tree fruit, cantaloupes, grapes, onions, macadamia nuts, coffee, and pecans. The region relies on irrigation more heavily than any other region in the United States.

What kind of economy does the south west have?

The South West region has abundant mineral deposits, fertile soils for agriculture, and strong manufacturing, retail and tourism industries. Mining is the region’s largest revenue earner and coal, alumina and mineral sands are the main contributors to the $1.9 billion industry.

Who are the major manufacturers in the south west?

Leading South West manufacturing companies include Princess Yachts, Actavis UK, pharmaceuticals manufacturer Wrafton Laboratories, Warrens the Bakers, Heathcoat & Co, MB Aerospace, Wrigley and Plessey Semiconductors – image courtesy of Depositphotos .

What are the industries in the West Country?

Other regional industries include engineering, ship building, electronics and food processing. Swindon is home to many new industries, such as computers. Japanese car manufacturer Honda has an important car plant just outside Swindon. The counties of Devon, Cornwall* and Somerset are often called the West Country.

Why are technology industries thriving in the south-west?

“Robotics and artificial intelligence is one of the eight great technologies set out by David Willetts. It’s recognised as being important technology,” says Professor Chris Melhuish of the BRL. “Robots are being used in areas such as medical surgery through to bomb disposal, or for flying a plane on auto-pilot.”