Irish exports at worst ever level in early 2003

The Irish Exporters Association said today the first half of 2003 was the worst six-month period on record.

The association said the results could damage the ability of companies to maintain readiness for the expected improvement in global trading conditions in 2004.

Mr John Whelan, Chief Executive of the IEA, said a fall in exports to the UK was particularly damaging to companies who had borne the brunt of escalating wage costs, insurance cost and general cost increases.

He said they were no longer in a position to handle the fall in export prices resulting from the strengthening of the Euro.

Mr Whelan called on the Government to assist these companies and to re-evaluate the strategy for expanding sales in order to regain lost ground.