15th February 2019
The Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys TD, today welcomed the latest Goods Exports and Imports release from the Central Statistics Office, with preliminary figures showing that the value of goods exports from Ireland rose to a new record level of €140.8bn in 2018.
The value of goods exports increased by €18bn or 15% when compared to 2017. The US continues to be Ireland’s biggest single goods export market and exports to the US increased by 18% to €39bn in 2018. Exports to the EU increased by 13% to €71bn, while exports to the UK saw a 2% decrease to €16 bn.
The largest increase in goods exports was in Medical and Pharmaceutical Products which increased by €11bn to €46bn (+31% when compared with 2017). Exports of Organic Chemicals increased by 35% compared to 2017 to €27 bn.
Commenting on today’s figures Minister Humphreys said: “Export growth in Ireland in recent years has been very strong and I am very pleased that the growth in our goods exports has continued in 2018. The fruits of the efforts of our exporters and enterprise agencies can be seen in today’s trade data and I am proud of the success that companies in Ireland have achieved in international markets.
A key priority for Government is to promote diversified export markets in light of Brexit and we are committed to supporting our enterprises and opening up the potential for even stronger trade links and connectivity between Ireland and the rest of the world. Ministerial led Trade Missions will reinforce the potential for Irish companies in the global marketplace and provide a platform for accelerated export growth and investment opportunities.”
ENDS
The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation (DBEI) plays a key role in implementing the Government’s policies of stimulating the productive capacity of the economy and creating an environment which supports job creation and maintenance. The Department also has a remit to promote fair competition in the marketplace, protect consumers and safeguard workers.
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