Sumbawa, one of the Sunda Islands of Indonesia, is traversed by several mountain ranges, the northernmost of which is volcanic. In 1815 a violent eruption of Mount Tambora, the highest point on the island and the principal volcano, caused extensive loss of life.

The soil of Sumbawa is fertile, and farming and livestock raising are important industries. Chief crops include rice and maize. Valuable timber, including teak and sappanwood, is found on the island. Horses, buffalo, and teak are exported from Raba, a seaport on the northeastern coast.