1030. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of companies from Tipperary that participated in Enterprise Ireland supported trade missions in each of the years 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026; the countries visited; and the sectors represented, in tabular form. [61680/26]

During 2024, 2025 and 2026 to date, four companies from Tipperary took part in Enterprise Ireland supported trade missions.

Trade missions are a key element of Enterprise Ireland’s strategy to support Irish companies in growing their exports, diversifying into new international markets, and building long-term commercial relationships overseas.

Led by Ministers and supported by Enterprise Ireland’s network of international offices, trade missions provide client companies with direct access to senior decision-makers, potential customers, distribution partners, investors and key sector stakeholders in target markets. They create opportunities for Irish businesses to showcase their capabilities, secure new contracts, and strengthen existing commercial relationships.

Trade missions are particularly important for small and medium-sized enterprises, which may not otherwise have the resources or market access required to engage with overseas customers at this level. The Government presence associated with these missions helps to open doors, enhance the visibility of participating companies, and reinforce Ireland’s reputation as a trusted trading partner.

Enterprise Ireland organises and supports a programme of trade missions each year across priority international markets. These missions form part of the agency’s broader efforts to assist Irish companies in increasing exports, improving competitiveness, expanding their global footprint, and contributing to economic growth and employment across the country.

Enterprise Ireland trade missions generate significant commercial opportunities for participating companies by facilitating direct engagement with potential customers, partners and investors in international markets. While many outcomes materialise over time, companies regularly secure new sales leads, contracts, distribution agreements and strategic partnerships as a result of these missions. They also help firms accelerate market entry, diversify export opportunities and strengthen long-term commercial relationships, supporting increased exports, business growth and job creation across Ireland.

The table below sets out the countries visited and the sectors represented by Tipperary companies in trade missions during the period.