A group of 42 Irish companies today began a week-long Enterprise Ireland trade mission to Brazil and Mexico.
The mission is being lead by Minister of a State with responsibility for international trade John McGuinness. Speaking in advance of the visit, said it was intended to enhance economic links and open up new
markets in both Latin American countries.
The Irish firms are involved in sectors such as telecommunications, financial services, agricultural equipment, educational services and food processing technology.
Brazil and Mexico are currently the two largest economies in Latin America.
Mr McGuinness said Ireland's economic success was very dependent on sales in overseas markets.
Irish exports to Latin America in 2007 jumped by 14 per cent compared with 2006 while exports to Brazil and Mexico grew by 8 per cent and 11 per cent respectively.
"A number of Enterprise Ireland client companies are already doing business in Brazil and Mexico and the export of Irish goods and services to Latin America continues to trend upward," said Mr McGuinness.
"Partnerships and joint ventures can be an effective and relatively risk-free way to penetrate new markets and the mission will also provide the opportunity for Enterprise Ireland client companies to forge strategic partnerships with Brazilian and Mexican companies in areas such as product development, marketing and sourcing."
Enterprise Ireland official Tom Cusack added Latin America was a good opportunity for Irish entrepreneurs who wanted a bigger slice of global markets. “The appetite for Irish innovation remains strong. Enterprise Ireland is committed to tapping the long-term market opportunities for Irish companies by helping them forge strong business ties in Brazil and Mexico, and throughout Latin America.”
The trade mission, which will end on Friday, also aims to enhance the profile of Irish firms already operating in
both countries.