Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 September 2025
248. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment his plans to support Irish SMEs affected by the 10% tariffs now being applied to most exports to the United States; whether targeted measures are being developed to help these firms diversify into new markets or offset the increased costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37630/25]
View answerThe global trading environment has been evolving rapidly over the last number of years. Geopolitical tensions, shifting regulatory environments and supply chain disruptions are reshaping how and where we do business. The introduction of the EU-US tariffs presents notable challenges for many Irish businesses exporting to the US market.? Irish exporters are a vital economic pillar in towns and communities around the country. As has consistently been pointed out, international trade is critically important to the vitality of Irish businesses – both the market diversification and the market resilience agendas are central to the long-term prosperity and success of our enterprise base.
The Government’s Action Plan on Market Diversification, sets out a path to assist and support Ireland’s businesses, large and small, to adapt to this new environment by striking out into new and diverse markets and deepening their engagement in existing markets. The Action Plan on Market Diversification 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.
My Department through Enterprise Ireland is actively supporting indigenous SMEs to adapt to the impact of US tariffs and future trade disruptions through a combination of strategic engagement and targeted supports. The agency is working directly with affected companies to assess risks and develop mitigation strategies, supported by its teams in Ireland and across seven US offices. Two new financial supports have been introduced: the Market Research Grant (up to €35,000) to help companies assess tariff impacts and develop pricing and supply chain strategies, and the New Markets Validation Grant (up to €150,000) to support market entry planning. These measures are part of a broader response that includes access to expert advice, strategic consultancy, and market diversification initiatives through Enterprise Ireland’s global network.
