Agriculture and food production forms the backbone of the local economy. As a maritime region, the fishing industry constitutes an economic pillar. As well as making a worthwhile contribution to the preservation of the cultural landscape, local agriculture centers around the production of animal feed, the cultivation of fruits and vegetables and herding of cattle and milk cows. For example, 12 % of the milk produced in Lower-Saxony is produced in Cuxhaven county. The numerous farmers markets that are characteristic of the region offer a rich assortment of both organic and conventional produce. The large number of processing companies shows the capacity of the regional food production industry and further assures the success of brands from in the city and country of Cuxhaven.

Along with the tourism and the maritime industry, the fishing industry is of the greatest economic importance in Cuxhaven. It is not only one of the largest employers, but also an economic area in which the city proves its distinctive strengths.

Cuxhaven is a traditional center of commercial fishing. This unique experience with fresh products and a special support services are a good basis for packing, processing, storage and transport of quality food products.

An example of this is the Veterinary Institute for Fish and Fish Products in Cuxhaven. It functions as a special research section of the Lower Saxon Department of Consumer Protection and Food Safety, and acts as a food and veterinary institute. It also serves as a consultant to small food-processing businesses, advising them about food control and the monitoring of the Lower-Saxon aquatice environment.

Further information at www.laves.niedersachsen.de.

Through the Niedersachsen-Ports GmbH it is possible to rent production and storage facilities in accordance with the fish production regulations of the city of Cuxhaven.