Economy is mostly based on agriculture, with the presence of a small number of light industries and services firms.

Giffoni area was the seat of the ancient town of Picenza[dubious – discuss], which was destroyed two times by the Romans in the course of their conquest of southern Italy.

[citation needed] The town is situated in a hill zone by the Picentini mountains.

The municipality is extended from the urban and industrial area between Salerno and Pontecagnano to the mountain range at the borders with the Province of Avellino.

Since 1971 the town has hosted the biggest international children's film festival of the world.