Enterprise Ireland client companies achieved record exports in 2012, breaking €16 billion for the first time, up from €15.2 billion in 2011. The outstanding geographical performance came from the U.S., where exports grew by 20 percent.

The main growth sectors to the U.S. were software, life sciences, including medical devices, business services and advanced engineering. Forty-two percent of all software exported by Irish companies is sold in the U.S.

Enterprise Ireland Executive Director for North America Gerry Murphy said, “This was an outstanding achievement by Irish owned companies in a year of sluggish economic growth in the U.S. 

“We are proud of the companies we work with and their tremendous achievement in continuing to increase export sales which are crucial in sustaining and growing jobs in Ireland. As the world’s largest technically advanced economy, the United States is a key trading partner for Ireland and offers a relatively low-risk operating environment for Irish businesses.”

Murphy thanked the members of the Irish diaspora in the U.S. who continue to provide a crucial role in mentoring and advising Irish companies and linking them with business opportunities

Enterprise Ireland is increasing its activities to support clients win new export business and build business networks and partnerships across America. 

This year will see a record number of trade missions and trade fairs in sectors as diverse as financial software, telecommunications, digital media, oil and gas, animation, information security and healthcare, all aimed at linking Irish companies to American buyers.