Exporting

Trade mission programme for 2012 announced

20.02.2012

The Government has released its Ministerial-led trade mission plan for the year, which the Irish Exporters Association has welcomed but finds somewhat limited.

The Government has released its Ministerial-led trade mission plan for the year, which the Irish Exporters Association has welcomed but finds somewhat limited.

“Getting the programme out early is welcome as this enables export businesses to plan how they may maximise their own business opportunities,” said Colin Lawlor, vice president of the IEA.

“However, the 17 missions in total for 2012 is very limited relative to the challenges facing exporters and the economy, particularly given the critical role of increased exports in economic recovery for Ireland."

The focus on China with three missions is an adequate response to the opportunities available and the openness of the Chinese authorities, particularly following the visit of Vice Premier Xi Zingping, according to Lawlor. “It is very welcome to see that Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD has accepted an official invitation to visit China in March.”

However, one trade mission only to India — and this an education mission only — is a totally inadequate response to the potential opportunities available in this fast-growing, very large economy, he believes.

“An increased number of missions to cover other priority Asia countries (Korea, Malaysia) is required if we are to make any long term impression on the larger far-flung regions and to participate in the very significant growth opportunities in the region."

Minister-led Overseas Trade Missions 2012