Employment

Employment and Opportunities

Employment

The East Region has a limited range of employment opportunities that offer lower wages than the Capital Region. Seasonal jobs in fish processing, tourism, construction, and slaughtering are available. Many young people, especially young women, consider these jobs unattractive and are therefore moving in large numbers to the Capital Region, attracted by the opportunities it presents for study and work.

Land Use and Resources

The fishing grounds off the east coast of Iceland form the basis of a strong fishing industry in the region. Fishing for capelin and herring is especially good off the east coast, while fishing for blue whiting is common in deeper waters. Cod and other demersal species also are plentiful. Some of the fjords offer suitable conditions for fish farming and there are plans to start salmon farming there.

Farming practices in the east region include sheep, dairy and beef cattle, and organic vegetables. Forestry has become widespread in Fljótsdalshérað. The highlands are valuable for tourism and are used for hiking and hunting of reindeer, geese and ptarmigan. In lowland areas, fishing for trout and salmon is popular.