Most of the population depends on subsistence farming and so domestic commerce is not a significant part of the economy. There are, however, a number of thriving small businesses and factories within the Asmara area. These include restaurants, bars, internet cafes, auto repair shops, crafts, a brewery, cigarette factory, and small glass and plastics producers. There are also several companies involved in making leather goods, and textile and sweater factories, operating primarily for domestic consumption. Most local industries rely on outmoded technology and suffer from a lack of capital investment.
Business hours are 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM , and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM , Monday through Saturday in Asmara; and 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM Monday through Saturday in Massawa and Assab. Banks are open from 8 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 4 PM , Monday through Friday.
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