merrion street

Enterprise Minister Bruton welcomed the release today of the latest external trade statistics for final 2010 export performance.

“The final figures show that the total value of exports in 2010 was €162.7 bn, the highest ever total, representing growth of 8% on the 2009 figure. Our overall exports generated a trade surplus of €35.4bn for the year, also the highest ever, and net exports made a very important contribution to our GDP last year.”

Commending this achievement by our exporters, particularly given difficult trading conditions, the Minister noted the increase in merchandise exports in 2010 and also as a proportion of total exports.  Commenting on growth in knowledge-based services in computing, and in insurance and financial services, the Minister stated that ...

“These sectors must continue to be our focus.  I will be working hard to ensure that the improvement to Ireland’s competitiveness continues, and Government will support our exporters in any way we can.”