Agriculture
For centuries, the country's basic industries have been agriculture, fishing and fish processing.
Iceland is self-sufficient in the production of meat, dairy products, eggs and to a large extent also in the production of certain vegetables.
Icelandic farmers employ the latest agricultural technology and production is subject to constant and strict quality control. Farming is based largely on traditional livestock raising. For centuries, Icelandic farmers have raised both cattle and sheep, so-called mixed animal husbandry, which is still the most common form of farming. Such farms usually also have some horses. Specialization has, however, increased significantly in recent years. Many farmers now raise only pigs, poultry or horses, or produce eggs exclusively.
A considerable number of farmers are engaged in vegetable-growing or greenhouse production. More and more farmers are also becoming involved in the tourism industry and offer various different services to tourists.
Conditions for grain growing are difficult due to the short summers and cool climate. However, hardy, fast-growing barley types do grow well here. Icelandic grass is better and more nourishing foragethan most other grass grown in Europe. The explanation for this is found in the long hours of daylight during the country's short, cool summers. These conditions cause grass to grow exceptionally well during bright summers.
The information above is from the booklet "Icelandic Agriculture" published by the Icelandic Agricultural Information Service.
