Carol Nolan (Offaly, Independent)
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411. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the efforts that are being made to increase export supports to assist in market development and diversification for the Irish drinks industry across established and emerging markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38979/25]

Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The Government continues to actively support Irish businesses, including in the drinks industry, to diversify into non-English-speaking and broader international markets. In light of increasing global economic uncertainty and shifting trade dynamics, my Department, through Enterprise Ireland (EI), 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. EI will continue to provide the necessary resources, guidance, and strategic supports to help Irish companies navigate the evolving trade landscape and also mitigate the effects of tariffs.

The Government recognises that this is a dynamic and evolving situation and a key element of our response is the forthcoming Action Plan on Market Diversification. This Action Plan provides an opportunity 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 has long recognised that the performance of Ireland’s food and drink industry will be a key economic driver. EI works closely with clients across the drinks industry to support them in the areas of expansion, innovation, competitiveness, leadership and raising finance so that they can become successful global players.

EI recently announced its export results for 2024 showing that EI supported companies exported goods and services worth €36.75 billion, a 7% increase over 2023. This is a strong performance from EI’s client base, with growth across all overseas territories demonstrating Irish businesses’ agility and resilience in creating new growth opportunities in challenging economic times. Within the Food & Sustainability Division, Dairy Drinks & Food FDI increased exports to €9.2 billion, up 8% on 2023 figures. The impact of this activity by EI client companies can be seen in the €42.65 billion spent in the Irish economy in 2024 which includes €13 billion spent on payroll.

EI aid to exporting SMEs includes direct financial assistance through grants, loans, and equity investments; Market Research and export development assistance; funding and mentoring for Innovation and Research; and facilitating international trade missions, trade event programmes, buyer visits, and market access opportunities, which are instrumental when growing and scaling internationally. Enterprise Ireland is actively helping companies to reduce reliance on traditional markets by exploring opportunities in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and continental Europe. EI 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 with an extensive network of EI offices.

Financial supports include the Market Discovery Fund, which covers up to €150,000 for exploring new markets, and Lean Business supports which improve operational efficiency. The GradStart programme helps companies build internationalisation capacity by funding graduate hires, including those with language skills.