International trade mission programme for 2017

Highlights of the 2017 trade event schedule include:

• 20 trade events to North America to include a multi-sector trade mission to the USA and Canada and digital technologies trade visit to the USA
• 22 trade events to Northern Europe to include the ‘Nor Shipping’ trade event to Norway; ‘Medica’ lifesciences trade event in Germany and the Paris Air Show aviation trade event
• 14 trade events to the UK to include ‘Digital Construction’ and ‘UK Financial Services’ trade events
• 20 trade events to the Asia Pacific region to include a financial services & fintech trade mission

Julie Sinnamon, CEO, Enterprise Ireland said: “In line with the ‘Ireland Connected’ whole of government trade strategy launched recently, a key element of Enterprise Ireland’s 2017-2020 strategy is to help Irish exporters build scale and expand reach globally. As the UK takes a step closer to triggering article 50 in the coming weeks, it is imperative that Irish companies build new and stronger trade links in international markets. The 2017 trade mission schedule targets key sectors in high potential growth markets and aims to open doors for Irish companies to create opportunities to start negotiations and win significant business contracts in overseas markets.”

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD said: “The Action Plan for Jobs 2017 gives a clear mandate to Enterprise Ireland to drive the global ambition of Irish companies, particularly in the context of Brexit, and to set their sights further afield and power the economy through strong positions in diverse export markets. As part of the Trade Mission and Events programme 2017, I look forward to working with Enterprise Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs to promote Ireland’s capabilities and competitive advantage as an innovation hub with a particular focus on a number of sectors to include lifesciences, fintech and construction”

Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade, Charlie Flanagan TD said: "I am acutely conscious of the importance of minister-led trade missions in terms of securing high level access for Irish companies seeking to grow their businesses overseas and increase jobs at home. Our 80-strong network of embassies and consulates fulfil a vital role in cooperation with Enterprise Ireland and the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in supporting such missions. The complex challenges presented by Brexit had given renewed impetus to Ireland's trade diversification drive and these trade missions are an important element of our response to Brexit."