Written answers

Wednesday, 20 February 2013

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Exports Growth

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade based on the performance over the past two years, the countries in Europe or worldwide that present the best prospects for increased trade with this country in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9272/13]

Photo of Eamon GilmoreEamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Ireland’s exports have performed well over the past two years. The total value of merchandise exports in 2012 was €92 billion, representing an increase of 3.1% on the 2010 figure (€89 billion), while services exports for the first nine months of 2012 reached €66 billion; an increase of 23% on the same period in 2010 (€54 billion). In terms of our merchandise trade with Europe, over the past two years, exports have increased by 3% with notable growth in exports to Switzerland (37%), Germany (20%), Poland (11%), Great Britain (7.4%), Netherlands (7%) and Belgium (3%). Outside of European markets, there was significant growth in merchandise exports to, inter alia, Canada (24%), Russia (20%), India (15%) and Japan (20%).

As the Deputy is aware, the Government Trade Strategy identifies 27 priority markets, including those with the best prospects for increased trade. Local market teams headed by our Ambassadors are in place in these markets and their work is overseen by the high level Export Trade Council, which I chair. I can ensure the Deputy that my Department and the Embassy network will continue to prioritise our work to support the growth of Irish exports.

It should be noted that, while the markets listed above have all shown impressive growth in recent years, previous years’ export figures may not be indicative of future export prospects. There are many factors that affect exports such as the prevailing global macroeconomic and policy environment, the impact of EU Free Trade Agreements, currency and oil price fluctuations, as well as other unforeseen factors.

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