city, southwestern Dominican Republic. It lies along Neiba Bay, off the Caribbean Sea, at the northeastern foot of the Sierra de Baoruco. The gateway to the Dominican Republic's lake district, Barahona is an important port and fishing centre. Sugarcane is grown in the surrounding alluvial lowlands and coffee in the mountains. The city's industrial and commercial activity centres on sugarcane, molasses, coffee, hardwoods, and fruits, which are its main exports. Salt beds are located in the area. The city is accessible by highway and air; an international airport opened there in 1996. Pop. (2002) urban area, 74,958.