· http://www.french-at-a-touch.com/French_Regions/Corsica/corsica_8.htm#The%20Economic
· The Economic Activity of Corsica
o The Agriculture:
Agriculture dominates the island's agriculture economy. The island's forests have already been greatly depleted. However, they are still able to supply chestnuts, some lumber and cork. Olives, grapes, wheat, and timber are produced in Haute-Corse. The traditional farmstead is the maison haute. It is built with thick stone-walls which are needed to insulate against the winter cold. Stables are found on the ground floor. The maison haute's living quarters are on the second floor and food and supplies are stored in the attic. Olives, citrus fruit, grapes and cork are produced in Corse-du-Sud. Animal husbandry is of particular importance; with ewe's milk, from the area, being used to make Roquefort cheese. Sheep are raised on the rugged Niolo plateau in the north, and cheese from their milk is an important Corsican export. Throughout the island, fruit, olive, cork trees and wheat are grown. Tobacco is cultivated and wine is made.
Corsica's standard of living, particularly in the interior, is still somewhat below that of continental France. The need to import fuel, machinery and food has been a significant impediment to industrial development. Although the island's economy revolves around tourism, other industries are important. The major industries are food processing, fishing, wine making, mining of antimony and asbestos, quarrying of granite and marble, the preparation of tannic acid and exporting. Corsica's main exports are granite and marble, tannic acid, cork, cheese, wine, citrus fruit, olive oil and cigarettes. Cereals, meat, fresh foods, and manufactured goods are the main imports. Traditional agriculture has been hurt by imports, outdated farming methods, and other factors. Sheep breeding is also on the decline. With its scenery, excellent climate, and magnificent coastline, Corsica could be an outstanding tourist resort.
o The Tourism:
Corsica has outstanding tourism assets in its moderate Mediterranean climate, beautiful scenery and its magnificent coastline. The island's network of tarred roads is adequate, and a railway links Ajaccio, Bastia, and Calvi. Corsica is connected by air and sea with continental France. Since 1957, the French government has taken the lead in large-scale investment in the Corsican economy. It has also been providing advice and subsidies. This notwithstanding, the island's tourist industry has yet to be fully realized.