42 Irish Companies Seek Export Growth In Latin American Market

The Minister for Trade and Development, Joe Costello T.D., will today lead an Enterprise Ireland trade mission of 42 Irish companies to Brazil to boost trade between the two countries, and help Irish companies grow their export sales and create jobs in Ireland.

Last year, Enterprise Ireland client companies grew exports to Brazil by 40% and further strong growth is expected this year. The visit is being organised in close cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Embassy of Ireland in Brasilia.

It is timed to coincide with the visit to Latin America by President Michael D. Higgins. The presence of both President Higgins and Minister Costello reflects the importance which the Government attaches to Ireland’s economic and trade relationship with Brazil.

Minister Costello said: "Jobs are at the very top of this Government’s agenda, and a central part of the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs is to increase export activity with key high-growth markets such as Brazil.

"Our trade relationship with Brazil, which is a priority market under the Government’s Trade Strategy, is already very strong. Innovative and export-focused Irish firms already operating successfully in Brazil have raised awareness of the quality and high-tech nature of products and services Irish firms offer. This mission is about cementing and building on these existing links and opening new doors for increased export business and collaborative business ventures. My Department and the Embassy network are working very closely with Enterprise Ireland on such trade missions to our priority markets."

The 42 firms participating on the trade mission have strong track records in finding and winning business in new markets. They span a wide range of sectors including telecoms, financial services, engineering and education. Enterprise Ireland’s Head of International Sales and Partnering, Kevin Sherry, who is accompanying Minister Costello on the trip, described the trade mission as a very timely and exciting opportunity for Irish firms seeking to expand their global market presence.

(GK)