What does the secondary sector primarily encompass?

The secondary sector primarily encompasses manufacturing and construction activities. This sector is characterized by the transformation of raw materials obtained from the primary sector, such as agriculture and fishing, into finished goods. For example, manufacturing includes the processes involved in creating products, such as assembling components into electronics, clothing, or automobiles. Construction involves building infrastructure, such as homes, roads, and bridges, by utilizing various materials and labor skills.

This sector is crucial for adding value to the raw materials and creating employment opportunities, contributing significantly to economic development. In contrast, other sectors, such as agriculture and fishing, fall under the primary sector, while retail and services belong to the tertiary sector. Technology and innovation can be relevant to all sectors but are not distinctly classified under the secondary sector alone. The emphasis on manufacturing and construction as core characteristics reinforces why this choice fits the definition of the secondary sector.