Enterprise Ireland client companies achieved record exports in 2012 breaking €16bn for the first time, up from €15.2bn in 2011.  Greatest wins came from sectors such as Engineering, Software, Internationally Traded Services and Medical Devices, while the outstanding geographical performance came from USA, Asia Pacific and Latin America.

Throughout the year Irish companies continued to broaden their export footprint and increase their sales, in the face of increasing challenges across all global markets. The world economy is predicted to grow moderately (3.3%) in 2013 (Source: IMF April 2013) and the strong performance by Irish companies over the past year puts them in a very healthy position to capitalise on this growth. 

Enterprise Ireland is increasing its activities to support clients win new export business and build international networks and partnerships.  2013 will see a record number of ministerial-led trade missions with an increased focus on high growth economies in Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.  This will be backed up by a wide range of inward buyer visits, study visits, trade fairs, Embassy events and knowledge seminars, all aimed at linking Irish companies to international buyers, leading to increased exports and jobs for Ireland.

Making the announcement, Frank Ryan, CEO, Enterprise Ireland said: ”In Enterprise Ireland we are proud of the companies we work with and their tremendous achievement in continuing to increase export sales. These companies are responsible for 300,000 jobs and spend over €18bn in the Irish economy each year by winning business all over the world. It is especially encouraging to see significant gains in established markets like North America, the High Growth Economies of Asia Pacific and record performances from advanced engineering, software and medical device sectors”.

Commenting on the results Minister Bruton said: “Dynamic and innovative Irish companies are central to the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs and these results today confirm that they are continuing to deliver for the Irish economy. Exports create jobs and the record figures announced here today are very promising for employment growth over the coming years. I congratulate all Irish exporters on this performance and credit also to Frank and his team at Enterprise Ireland”.