DUBLIN – The Irish government is set to announce a new support plan, dubbed the “Action Plan on Market Diversification,” to help businesses cope with the impact of a new 15% US tariff on European Union exports.
The plan, unveiled by Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris and Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, contains over 100 measures designed to bolster economic resilience and mitigate risks from the tariffs. The government stated the move is a proactive step to help Irish exporters find new markets.
Key proposals within the plan include:
- Export Expansion: A program will be launched to support 170 new Irish exporters as they enter global markets.
- Talent Mobility: The government will explore fast-tracked visa options for skilled workers in high-demand sectors to allow for quicker entry.
- Air Access Fund: A new fund is planned to establish new air routes, including strategic long-haul destinations, to improve connectivity.
- State Agency Expansion: Irish state agencies will expand their international presence. The IDA (Industrial Development Authority) will review its global strategy and establish a new presence in Seoul, South Korea. Bord Bia will seek to increase its footprint in three markets, while Tourism Ireland will add more teams in the United States and Canada.
- Global Presence: The government’s “Ireland House” model, which co-locates diplomats and state agencies under one roof, will expand with new locations planned for London, Toronto, Lyon, Milan, and Madrid.
- Trade Missions: Multi-ministerial trade missions, led by the Taoiseach, are set to resume in 2025 with a visit to Canada, with further missions planned for 2026 and 2027.
- St. Patrick’s Day Program: The annual St. Patrick’s Day program will have an “increased focus” on key and emerging markets.
