Which of the following sectors makes up around 50% of Australia's total exports?

The choice of minerals as the sector that makes up around 50% of Australia's total exports is well-founded based on Australia's resource-rich endowment. The minerals sector includes a range of products such as iron ore, coal, gold, and natural gas, which are highly sought after in international markets, particularly in countries like China. The significant demand for these resources has positioned minerals as a key contributor to Australia’s export economy.

Australia's mineral exports benefit from high global demand, often experiencing price surges due to international market dynamics. This sector's strength emerges from Australia's ability to supply large quantities of high-quality minerals, which enhances its competitive advantage on the global stage. The robust performance of the minerals sector has often overshadowed other areas, such as agriculture and manufacturing, which also play important roles in the economy, but do not reach the same level of export volume.

When compared to the agriculture sector, while Australia is a significant exporter of agricultural products, this sector typically reflects a smaller proportion of total exports than minerals. The manufacturing sector has seen a decline in its relative share of exports due to global shifts in production and trade patterns. The services sector, while essential for domestic economic activity and growing in importance, still lags behind minerals in terms of overall