AmCham Publishes US-Ireland Business Report with The Irish Times
AmCham was delighted to partner with the Irish Times on a Special Report on Ireland-US Business, as part of our annual Independence Day Celebrations.
In the Report, you will hear from AmCham CEO, Paul Sweetman, and AmCham 2025 President, Liz Cunningham, about the work of AmCham and the strength of the US-Ireland relationship.
Speaking about proposed US tariffs on EU countries, Paul said that while trade negotiations are a reserved competency for the EU, Ireland can still play an important role by continuing to act as an economic gateway between the United State and Europe.
He said that Ireland’s approach to dealing with proposed US tariffs will be critical for its ability to secure American FDI in the coming years.
He said: “What we know for the moment is the extent of the tariffs being proposed."
“There is an optimum approach to this. Business decisions are made on a medium- to long-term basis and we need to get through the tariffs as quickly as possible to ensure they don’t become a long-term fixture.”
However, Paul noted that enhancing Ireland’s overall competitiveness should be the priority for Government.
“Our competitiveness as an economy is the biggest single factor affecting long-term growth.”
He said: “We are doing very well in some areas: Ireland is the seventh most competitive country in the world according to the latest IMD Index. But when you look underneath that ranking, we are only 46th for prices and cost competitiveness and 44th for basic infrastructure. We are doing a bit a bit better for scientific infrastructure but are still quite low, at 19th. These areas all need attention if we are to improve our competitiveness.”
You can read Paul’s full article online here.
In the same supplement, AmCham President, Liz Cunningham said: “Ireland’s status as a global hub for research and innovation is fundamental to attracting and retaining high value multinational investment.”
She said: “Our strength in this area has resulted in Ireland being home to 14 of the top 15 global medtech companies, nine of the top 10 US tech companies and numerous global leaders in A.I., automation, and pharmaceuticals. And these companies are not just investing in Ireland, they are choosing Ireland as the base for their research operations and developing life-saving products and services and enhancing them from right here on Irish soil.”
Liz noted that A.I. and software are the leading areas of research among AmCham member companies. She said: “ To sustain and grow this investment, it will be vital to reinforce Ireland’s position as a trusted regulatory hub within the EU, a priority identified as important by 94 percent of AmCham members. Additionally, 96 percent of members said continued EU investment in A.I. is critical to sustaining Ireland’s competitiveness and leadership in this transformative field.”
You can read Liz’s full article here
The supplement also contains contributions from the leaders of many AmCham members companies on topics including A.I., supply chains, enhancing our talent pipeline and boosting regional development.
You can read the full supplement online here