Companies supported by Enterprise Ireland exported a record-breaking €34.57bn in goods and services last year.
The Irish government's trade and innovation agency revealed the export numbers on June 27.
The figures showed an overall increase of 8 % in non-food exports, although food and sustainability exports were down by 4 %, being largely impacted by international dairy sales and prices.
The largest export gains were achieved in the UK market, up 6% to €9.97bn.
The agency reported that it had already surpassed its 2024 target of a 10% increase in the number of companies achieving sales greater than €10m, €20m and €50m.
At the end of 2023, a year ahead of target, over 20% growth in each category had been achieved.
Commenting on the results, Ireland's Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke T.D, said: “Across a variety of sectors and international markets, Irish exporters have made significant gains and continue to grow their influence internationally, despite a more challenging international business environment and rising costs.
"Irish exporters are a critical component of the Irish economy, and the government is committed to supporting this sector to scale to further heights in the years ahead.”
Technology and Services exports were up 10% to €8.49bn. Industrial and Lifesciences exports were up by 7% to €10.384bn, while Food and Sustainability exports were down by 4% to €15.691bn.
The UK remains the largest export market for Enterprise Ireland client companies, accounting for 29% of total exports at €9.97bn, a 6 % increase.
Exports to the Eurozone, the second largest export market accounting for 25% of total exports, rose 2% to €8.61bn in 2023.
Germany, France and the Netherlands are the biggest export markets in the Eurozone. Exports to Germany increased by 14% to €2.33bn while exports to France were up 5% to €1.82bn. Exports to the Netherlands were down 13% to €1.75bn.
The third largest export market, accounting for 19% of total exports is North America. In 2023, exports to the region were up by 5% to €6.48bn. Of which €5.9bn exports were to the USA.
Overall, non-food exports to North America, were up 8%. Technology and Services grew by 8% to €2.95bn, and Industrial & Lifesciences exports were up 7% to €2.22bn.
Leo Clancy, CEO of Enterprise Ireland, said: “Irish exporters have remained committed to investing in the UK, our largest trading partner, and the 6% growth in exports justifies that commitment.
"While the Eurozone grew by a more modest 2% this can be largely attributed to Food exports to the region being down by 6%.
"Technology, Industrial and Lifesciences exporters continue to thrive in North America, particularly the USA, with exports in these combined sectors up 8% to €5.17bn.
“Overall, Industrial, Lifesciences and Construction exports have surpassed €10bn exports and reflective of the caliber of Irish software being produced, we would expect Technology and International Services exports will also reach that €10bn milestone.
“Our mission is to accelerate Ireland’s economy with robust job growth and export gains worldwide. As we focus on business growth and expansion, sustainability, productivity and digitalization will be high on our agenda.”
The agency said that Enterprise Ireland client companies spent €39.3bn in the Irish economy in 2023, including €11.7bn on payroll.
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