Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 200: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will respond to a query (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4099/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Over the last decade in particular, the Government has devoted considerable effort to developing enhanced links with Asia, and China in particular, in order to engage more productively with that region, in view of its growing economic power and the consequent opportunities for Ireland. The Asia Strategy was launched in 1999 and the second phase, from 2005, set key specific targets to be achieved. I am happy that most of these have been exceeded. During that 10-year period, merchandise exports to China rose from €119m in 1999 to €1.609bn in 2008 (final figures are not yet available for the full year 2009 but are likely to very similar). In addition, Services exports have grown from a negligible level in 1999 to €1.423bn in 2008. These achievements have reduced our trade deficit from €2.9bn some years ago to just €1.3bn in 2008. In fact when the data for Hong Kong, where we already have a surplus, is added, the deficit for greater China, is reduced further.

In addition to trade, the Asia Strategy has resulted in 103 Irish companies having established a presence in China, significant high-level visits between the two countries have been organised, tourism, educational and cultural links have been deepened and a range of other initiatives pursued.

My Department drives and chairs a Joint Economic Commission Agreement with China in which diverse issue are pursued with a view to promoting closer and deeper economic contacts. This is a very useful mechanism to advance a range of initiatives that can be mutually beneficial. The next formal session of this forum is due later this year.

Enterprise Ireland now has four offices in China to assist Irish companies developing exports there. The Department of Foreign Affairs have opened a Consulate in Shanghai, the main commercial centre, in addition to the existing embassy in Beijing. Outside of China, both Enterprise Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs have expanded their network of offices and missions in the South–East Asian region over recent years. The most recent new Embassy established was in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 2005. Also, Bord Bia have established an office in Shanghai to develop Irish food exports to the region.

In response to the Smart Economy Framework, my Department is both reviewing the achievements of the Asia Strategy, as well as working with the Development Agencies and other Departments to develop a new Strategy and Action Plan for Trade, Investment and Tourism. This will focus on high growth emerging markets such as China, as well as on our existing key trading partners. The aim is to bring further focus and coherence to Ireland's single-minded pursuit of our international economic and commercial interests. I am satisfied that the Government is fully engaged to seize the opportunities in these markets.