Terence Flanagan
Ceist:64 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding trade missions to China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6108/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 2 February 2012
Ceisteanna (67)
Freagraí scríofa
Trade missions are a valuable support to Irish business in developing the exports which are crucial to our economic recovery. This is particularly the case in countries where Government-to-Government contacts are a prerequisite for doing business. My Department and our Embassy network work closely with the agencies and other Government Departments regarding the organisation of such missions. A programme of Minister-led trade missions, organised in association with Enterprise Ireland to develop and expand Ireland's exports to existing and new markets abroad, is planned for next year. The full range of destinations is still being finalised at this stage, and will most likely include a trade mission to China.
I hope to visit China on an official visit at a mutually convenient date in 2012. This visit will provide an opportunity to build on the excellent bilateral relations that exist between our two countries; to have discussions with my opposite number in China on matters of mutual concern; to promote Irish interests; and to further enhance our political, trade, investment, education and tourism links with China.
The Government attaches great importance to widening and deepening bilateral relations with China, including the political and economic relationships. China is a key high-growth and high-potential market for Ireland under the Strategy and Action Plan for Irish Trade, Tourism and Investment to 2015. The local market team, set up under the Strategy, includes all of the State Agencies present in China in addition to the Embassy in Beijing and the Consulate-General in Shanghai. The team is chaired by our Ambassador in Beijing and has been actively working to build on our growing economic and trade relationships with China.
Ireland had a modest trade surplus with China in 2010. Total merchandise trade between Ireland and China was worth almost €5.6 billion in 2010. Trade in services during the same period was worth €2.7 billion. Over 130 Irish companies now have a permanent business presence in China — an increase of 300% over the last five years.