This week, Ireland signalled a major acceleration in its global trade strategy, with the world’s fourth-largest economy, Japan, firmly in its sights. A joint trade and investment visit to Japan, led by Minister Peter Burke and supported by Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, coincided with a four-day official visit by Taoiseach Micheál Martin. These engagements represent a significant step in strengthening the €23 billion trade relationship between the two countries.
A central theme across all engagements was market diversification. With uncertainty clouding future trade ties with the United States, Ireland is actively broadening its market opportunities.
Enterprise Ireland CEO-designate Jenny Melia noted that Japan is facing a worsening demographic crisis, characterised by a rapidly ageing population. In response, health and long-term care services will need significant scaling up nationwide. This challenge is driving strong and sustained demand for healthcare innovation, diagnostics, and elderly care solutions. With its established presence in medtech exports, Ireland is well-positioned to meet this demand and respond to Japan’s evolving demographic realities.
The opportunity extends beyond healthcare. Ireland’s food and drink sector is also poised for growth in Japan, benefiting from improved market access under the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement in 2019. This agreement significantly reduced tariffs, opening doors for key Irish exports like dairy, meat, and beverages.
These strategic market advancements coincide with Enterprise Ireland’s announcement this week of a record €36.75 billion in exports last year, marking a 7% increase on 2023. Growth was recorded across all territories and major sectors, reflecting the agility and resilience of Irish companies as they scale internationally.
Meanwhile, IDA Ireland published its mid -year results for 2025, revealing a 37% increase in investments compared to the first half of 2024. The report details 179 investments supported in the six months to June. Of these, 52 were new or first-time investments in Ireland, while 43 were research, development, and innovation projects, underscoring Ireland’s growing international reputation as a hub for cutting-edge innovation. Together, these two positive indicators record exports and rising inward investment, underscoring Ireland’s upward trajectory, sharply contrasting with recent pessimistic projections.
Looking ahead, Ireland’s proactive approach to expanding its international trade footprint positions it well to navigate global economic uncertainties. By leveraging its strengths in innovation and sectoral expertise, Ireland is not only enhancing existing partnerships but also paving the way for new opportunities.
