merrion street

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore TD, has welcomed the latest CSO trade figures which show that goods exports in January 2014 increased by 4 percent, or €302 million, when compared with January 2013.

Today’s figures follow on the recent positive annual services export figures, which grew by 4.8 percent in 2013, confirming that the value of Ireland’s services exports has now overtaken goods exports for the first time.

The Tánaiste noted the strong start to 2014, with agri-food exports up 9 percent for the month when compared with January 2013. Exports of Chemicals and related products also increased 6 percent in the same period.

Commenting on the figures, the Tánaiste said:

“Following the recent publication of positive statistics regarding our services exports for 2013, I welcome the positive trend in today’s trade figures which show that goods exports are up 4 percent when compared with the same month last year. Despite a number of challenging months in our export markets, these improving figures are an encouraging sign.

"As Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Chair of the Export Trade Council, I will continue to ensure that the coordination of the Government’s efforts, and the close collaboration between our Embassy network, Government Departments and the State agencies, will support our exporting companies to win new business and create additional jobs in the year ahead.

"Last month, my Department published the Review of the Government Strategy for Trade, Tourism and Investment. The Review aims to further coordinate our efforts overseas in a manner which yields the best possible economic return and contribute to the economic recovery we are all working so hard to achieve.”