Since the rise of the chemical industry, salt production has become one of the largest activities in the Camargue region. Chlorine and soda extracted from salt enter the composition of many chemical and pharmaceutical products and explain such an important development. The Salin de Giraud and its basins intended for salt production extend over more than 34,595 acres (14,000 ha). The Salin d'Aigues-Mortes, on the other hand, is mainly dedicated to the cultivation of sea salt intended for food purposes.