Vol. 526 No. 4
192 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has satisfied herself that trade levels with existing and potential markets are in all cases sufficiently buoyant to meet needs in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27040/00]
Export figures for the first eight months of 2000 show that the United States has overtaken Great Britain as our largest single export market. Exports to the United States increased by 55% over the same period in 1999 to a total of £8 billion or 19.5% of Ireland's exports worldwide. There were large increases in exports to the United Kingdom, Netherlands, France, Belgium, Italy, Japan and South Korea. The European Union accounted for 59.4% of Ireland's exports, the eurozone for 35.3% and the United Kingdom for 21.4%.
The key challenge for improved market development of Enterprise Ireland's client companies is the need for continued export growth, with more exporters, deeper market penetration and exploitation of global market opportunities. Enterprise Ireland's client companies are positive about prospects of continued sustained growth in key markets in 2000. Enterprise Ireland is placing special emphasis on the eurozone, where the trading advantages of a single currency need to be more vigorously exploited. The French and German markets, in particular, have significant potential for Irish companies.
Enterprise Ireland works proactively with its clients to develop and implement strategies to penetrate markets, especially international markets. As part of its development role, Enterprise Ireland organises a range of activities on behalf of its clients and the indigenous clients of other agencies. This involves the provision of customised services to individual firms, the organisation of group promotional events, and the provision of relevant support.
As part of its role in developing marketing capability of its clients, Enterprise Ireland organises a range of group promotional projects, such as trade fairs and trade missions for its clients, as part of its contribution towards enhancing the sustained competitiveness of its client companies.
