THE ECONOMY:

The economic performance of Bethlehem district tends to be similar to that of the other Palestinian Territories. These territories are of substantially different sizes but similar in stages of development.

The Israeli measures and policies have adversely affected the economies of the West Bank and Gaza. As a result, Bethlehem district has become isolated from both Palestinian economies as well from Israeli economy, while security measures and closures have prevented the markets’ of Bethlehem district from integrating with other Palestinian Cities, like Ramallah, Nablus and Gaza, as they remained isolated from Israel.

Overall, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Bethlehem Governorate accounts around 12% of the total GDP of the Palestinian Territories, being the output of Manufacturing (Stone Cutting, Textile, Plastic, handicrafts…etc).

Wholesales and retail trade, real estates and business services, construction, public services and transportation and communication approximate 85% of the GDP. However, output of electricity and water supply, hotels and restaurants, education and health services, agriculture account only 15% of the total GDP.

Bethlehem Governorate seems to enjoy an envious position amongst other Palestinian metropolis. This is due to its central, historical, cultural religious and social role.