Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 October 2018
212. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the location of trade missions she will participate in for the remainder of 2018; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44211/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraPromoting diversified export markets and pursuing new market opportunities for Irish products are key priorities for the Government and my Department. This includes markets that are growing as well as markets where companies are already well established but with potential for further growth.
Together, my Department and Enterprise Ireland (EI) agree an Annual Trade Missions and Events Programme which seeks to promote the capabilities of EI client companies to potential business partners and customers in international markets across the globe. Brexit has added to the importance of our supporting Irish companies to pursue a global ambition.
Between now and the end of 2018 I will lead a significant joint Enterprise Ireland/IDA Ireland Trade and Investment Mission to China, from 31 October to 7 November 2018. The programme for the visit will include the three cities of Hong Kong, Shenzen and Shanghai and 32 Enterprise Ireland client companies will participate in the overall Trade Mission. Visits between Ireland and China, such as this one, help to deepen and strengthen trade cooperation between our two countries and are an integral part of the ongoing work to develop and expand Ireland’s exports.
While in China, I will represent Ireland at the Chinese International Import Expo (CIIE). This is a major global event that will allow Ireland to showcase its exports and explore future business opportunities. Enterprise Ireland will host a stand at this event where nine Enterprise Ireland clients will exhibit.
On 12-14 November, my colleague Pat Breen T.D. Minister of State for Trade, Employment, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, will lead an Enterprise Ireland Trade Visit to Compamed/Medica in Dusseldorf and to EUROTIER 2018 in Hannover. Medica is the leading global event for manufacturers of medical technologies. Enterprise Ireland will host an Ireland Pavilion at Medica offering companies with innovative technologies the opportunity to showcase their products and services relevant to the sector, with a view to developing new business contacts and growth opportunities. EUROTIER 2018 is the world’s leading Trade Fair for animal production. This fair will provide a platform for Irish manufacturers of agricultural technology & equipment to showcase their products and solutions to an international audience.
On 22 November, Minister of State for Training, Skills, Innovation, Research and Development, John Halligan T.D. will travel to the Netherlands leading a Trade Mission focused on business process outsourcing.
