Written answers
Thursday, 20 January 2011
Department of Foreign Affairs
Trade Relations
5:00 am
Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 19: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the possibilities for the further development of trade, tourism and inward investment from Taiwan, which has one of the strongest economies in the world; if he has any proposals either directly or indirectly with other Departments and State agencies for the further promotion of trade, investment and tourism links with Taiwan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2854/11]
Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I am conscious that Taiwan is an important market for Irish exporters. In 2009, our merchandise exports to Taiwan were â¬253million and imports were â¬279million. The total annual figures for 2010 are not yet available, but in the first three quarters merchandise exports were â¬141million and imports were â¬122m. The most recent data on services trade relates to 2009 when our services exports to Taiwan came to â¬351million and imports â¬51million.
The Institute for Trade and Investment of Ireland (ITII) was established in Taipei in 1989 and undertakes a range of activities related to the work of the State Agencies. ITII promotes Ireland as a location for investment from Taiwan. Enterprise Ireland (EI) avails of the services of ITII when necessary, in carrying out its role in promoting the development of Irish exports. This is in addition to the work of the EI office in Hong Kong which also has responsibilities in relation to the Taiwanese market.
There is scope for enhancing this trade relationship and I am satisfied that the State Agencies are continuing to work to identify opportunities in this regard. Enterprise Ireland, on an ongoing basis, assists Irish companies who wish to develop export markets in Taiwan. In addition, prospects for inward Foreign Direct Investment from Taiwan are analysed and pursued where appropriate.
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