Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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368. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department has examined the capabilities of Irish businesses to implement market diversification, particularly in non-English-speaking markets; if new measures are being considered to support Irish business to enhance the necessary capabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34292/25]

Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The Government continues to actively support Irish businesses in diversifying into non-English-speaking and broader international markets. In light of increasing global economic uncertainty and shifting trade dynamics, my Department through Enterprise Ireland has placed a strong emphasis on enabling market diversification. This approach is central to ensuring that Irish enterprises remain competitive, agile, and well-positioned to seize new international opportunities.

The Government recognises that this is a dynamic and evolving situation, which is being monitored closely. A key element of the Government’s response is the forthcoming Action Plan on Market Diversification, currently being developed jointly by my Department and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The Action Plan provides an opportunity now for new ambition in our approach to market diversification. The Action Plan will provide a ‘whole-of-government’ approach to enhance Ireland’s economic and trading relationships with new and emerging markets. It will also consider actions which can be taken in established markets where there is value to be maintained and potentially more value available.

Enterprise Ireland continues to support Irish businesses in diversifying their export markets and is actively helping companies to reduce reliance on traditional markets by exploring opportunities in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and continental Europe. Enterprise Ireland has Market Advisors in 42 offices across 30 countries who work to provide local insights, connections, and practical support. There is a strong focus on European markets, which offer opportunities in sectors like digital tech, life sciences, and agri-tech. Enterprise Ireland’s European base includes offices in Brussels, Paris, Sweden among many others. Since 2019, Enterprise Ireland has opened bases in Munich and Lyon and most recently in Switzerland in 2025.

Enterprise Ireland offers dedicated supports to help businesses expand internationally, including the Strategic Consultancy Grant for expert advice and the Market Discovery Fund. I will be actively engaging with businesses to promote these schemes and drive uptake at scale.

My Department will continue to work closely with the enterprise agencies to ensure that firms have the tools, resources, and strategic support they need to succeed in a challenging and competitive global environment.