A major objectives is to reduce Suriname's over-reliance on bauxite mining, which provides 80% of the export earnings. The bauxite industry produces more than 1,6 million tons of alumina a year for export, mainly to the USA, Europe, Russia and South Africa.

Plans are to extend gold mining and oil production, each currently contributing to exports worth 25 million US dollars yearly. Suriname is also planning for the development of the (eco) tourism sector, albeit with a sensitive touch. Suriname is keen to protect its natural environment, which includes one of the largest remaining areas of untouched rain forests in the world.

In order to enhance investment, Suriname is now developing state-of-the-art domestic and offshore banking laws, while it has adjusted its import and export licensing and tax incentives for investors, along with creating a new Investment Act, that will provide investors with the necessary legislation to protect their rights and facilitate their access to the market.

Oil production: 12,000 bbl/day (2005 est.)

Oil proved reserves: 150 million bbl (2005)