Danmarks Handel og Industri

XXI representing a value of 200 mill. Kroner, and 126 mill, kg representing a value of 162 mill. Kroner. In addition to butter and pork, a series of other important articles of agriculture are also .exported, such as horses, cattle, meat, hides, eggs etc. The aggregate Danish output of agricultural products was estimated at roughly 1 milliard Kr. before the war, of which upwards of abt. 550 mill. Kr. was exported. The gigantic development of this income will be understood when it is added that the value of the export of agricultural products as late as at the end of the last century was only upwards of 250 mill. Kr. During the war the Danish agricultural industry has been considerably curtailed, owing to the suspension of the supplies of foreign raw material. In spite of all restrictions the country has however succeeded during these four years in preserving it main sources of production so that the country is able to resume the exportation to such places where the Danish agricul- tural products — owing to the scientific, technical and careful treatment which they, undergo — are renowned for their equality and superior quality. Denmark’s industrial development is of comparatively recent date, industry. The aforementioned distressing circumstances at the beginning of the 19th century, did away with the industry artificially cherished by mercantilism, and a new industry had to be built up from the very foundation gradually as matters became ripe for this purpose. It was not until after 1864 that this new development gained headway. The ancient guilds had been abolished in 1857 and at the same time handicraft was made free, and the impulsion which prevailed after the year of war and the amputation which the country had undergone asserted itself in the nation also favoured the industrial development. Gradually, in the process of time, industry was further supported by the industrial development of agriculture, directly through the natural qualilications it afforded for an extended manufacture of agricultural machines and agricultural implements etc., indirectly by the increased purchasing power, which it created among great parts of the popu- lation. The textile and metal industries flourished and in close connection with agriculture a sugar industry was built up which became of the greatest signifi- cance; in its present state it is not only capable of supplying the population of the country, but is furthermore able to produce a surplus for export.