Which is the largest Industry? Oil, Alchohol, or Gambling?

Question

I looked up what one state makes in a month in excise and sales taxes on cigarrettes. I was amazed.

I know that oil is and alcohol are big money, too. I'm really wondering if gambling is bigger. I think it has to be bigger than alcohol, since casinos can afford to give that away.

Plus, with the fact that some state and multi-state lottery tickets can now be bought online (yes, they can..see http://usa.congalotto.com), then gambling seems to be growing.

Funny that the three things I'm asking about also gain a big part of their revenue from people "trying" to get people to stop!

Answer 1

Oil, Alcohol, Gambling

In that order, not a doubt in my mind.

Edit:

Petroleum Industry - Largest on the planet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petroleum_i...

Distilled Spirits - "The distilled spirits industry is a major contributor to the nation's economy generating more than $100 billion in U.S. economic activity annually. Over 3.8 million people are employed in the U.S. in the production, distribution and sale of beverage alcohol."  

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distilled_S...

(that's just the U.S., but you get the point)

Gambling Industry - $84 Billion in the U.S.

http://www.americangaming.org/Industry/f...

Answer 2

It's got to be OIL...you need gas for your car to go buy cigs and lotto tickets!

Answer 3

I think oil is the biggest hands down

Alchohol and gambling may vary state to state as to which is bigger, my gut tells me that alchohol is bigger on average

Answer 4

definately gambing

Answer 5

oil. in forbes list, exxon and chevron are usually top 5 every year.