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light industry

Also known as: small-scale industry

Quick Summary

Light industry refers to the production of small goods intended for direct sale to consumers, rather than for use by other manufacturers. This contrasts with heavy industry, which focuses on producing goods like coal or steel that serve as raw materials for other industries.12

An example of light industry would be a clothing manufacturer selling garments directly to the public.1

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. light industry
  2. heavy industry

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