Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 September 2025
410. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he is considering a targeted export promotion initiative in budget 2026 to support Irish fashion and design brands, particularly in key markets such as the EU, UK, and US; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47914/25]
View answerThe Government recently published the Action Plan and Market Diversification which has a series of initiatives designed to deepen and expand existing market relationships where possible, identify and cultivate new market opportunities, deepen agency support for companies seeking to diversify their export markets and promote and protect market access for Irish goods. Planning by Departments and Agencies for their 2026 Trade Mission programme with be developed to achieve this objective, in line with the Action Plan for Market Diversification.
The Government through its agency Enterprise Ireland remains deeply committed to supporting the international growth of this vibrant and high-potential sector. Through a broad suite of strategic supports, Irish fashion and design businesses can access the tools they need to expand into key global markets, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
These supports are designed to help companies validate new markets, enhance brand competitiveness, and scale internationally. Whether a business is at the early stages of development or preparing to enter new markets, Enterprise Ireland offers funding to test feasibility, conduct market research, and recruit senior leadership to drive growth. Additional supports are available to build digital marketing capabilities and deliver strategic training in areas such as leadership, operational effectiveness, and sustainability.
My Department continues to champion Irish fashion and design through Showcase – Ireland’s Creative Expo, held annually at the RDS Dublin. This flagship event is a cornerstone of our creative export strategy. It connects Irish designers and makers with over 4,000 buyers from Ireland and overseas. In 2024, Showcase generated over €25 million in sales orders. Enterprise Ireland, working in partnership with the Design & Crafts Council Ireland and Local Enterprise Offices, promotes the event globally through its network of 39 overseas offices and facilitates international buyer engagement through the International Buyers’ Hub.
In 2025, Enterprise Ireland led a Market Study Visit programme to build ambition within the sector to internationalise. These visits began in the United States and expanded to the Middle East, Canada, and Scandinavia, combining expert-led education with showcasing and networking opportunities.
