Irish Exports At All-Time High - Enterprise Ireland

Irish exports have almost doubled in ten years, with 2015 seeing a 10% increase and an all-time high figure of €20.6 billion, up from €10.73bn in 2005.

Enterprise Ireland revealed that exports have increased across all sectors; with software, construction and manufacturing seeing the greatest rises.

Significant growth was recorded in exports across all sectors and in the majority of export territories according to the official figures. In particular there were increases of:

• 32% in exports for internationally traded software companies to €1.8bn

• 21% in exports for construction and consumer companies to €2.8bn

• 11% in exports by manufacturing companies to €3.4bn

• 3% in exports by food companies to €10.6bn

The results also show that exports have increased across most territories with exports to the USA and Canada increasing by 27% to almost €3bn; exports to the UK increasing by 12% to €7.5bn, and exports to Northern Europe increasing by 8% to €4.2bn. 

Julie Sinnamon, CEO of Enterprise Ireland said: "Enterprise Ireland's role is to help Irish companies export globally. The 2015 export figure of €20.6bn demonstrates the scale of the success that Irish companies are seeing in terms of winning business at record levels internationally. Significantly, growth was recorded across all sectors and we are seeing that diversification into high growth markets is a focus for our clients.

"The UK remains our largest export market, but we are seeing a trend whereby the exports to the UK as a proportion of our total client exports has declined from 45% in 2005 to 37% in 2015, as more companies have diversified their export strategies into Northern Europe, the USA and high growth markets including China, India, the Gulf and Brazil".

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O'Connor TD added: "Irish companies continue to deliver for the Irish economy and the figures announced today show the strength and capabilities of Irish companies competing at a global level. These companies have helped to create over 10,000 new jobs during 2015. One of the areas I am focusing on as Minister is to create an environment for job growth in our regions. A strong economy supporting people at work is needed to pay for services and to create a fair society. I would like to congratulate the exporters and also Enterprise Ireland for supporting these companies in achieving these record exports."

(MH/CD)