Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation Richard Bruton has set off on a mission to India in an attempt to generate exports for Irish businesses.
The trip will involve talks with political and corporate leaders in a push to promote Irish goods and services.
Mr Bruton is being joined on the trade mission by representatives of 22 Irish companies.
"The continued steady growth of Irish exports to India represents an excellent performance and there are significant further opportunities for increased trade and partnership between Irish and Indian organisations," he said.
Mr Bruton is also scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia to launch an "Education in Ireland" drive highlighting opportunities in Irish universities and institutes of technology.
He will meet with a number of Saudi government ministers.
"The Irish education of Saudi students is an important element in reinforcing the positive trading relationship with Saudi Arabia and we are keen to further develop this area for the mutual benefit of both Ireland and Saudi Arabia," he added.
PA