Irish exports to the Arab region rose 5.6% in the first half of the year to €1.5bn.
The Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce (AICC) said trade with the region has seen a sustained demand for Irish goods.
Countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, Iraq and Qatar have emerged as buoyant markets for Irish business.
AICC said the data reflects resilient demand in eastern markets despite ongoing geopolitical and economic challenges.
Saudi Arabia remains Ireland’s largest import market in the region, with trade exports valued at €524.3m, an increase of 8.79% compared with the same period in 2024. The UAE followed with €389.4m, posting modest growth of 1%.
Egypt recorded a 6.68% increase in Irish imports to €130m, while Iraq saw the sharpest growth among the larger markets, climbing 15.4% to €100m.
Irish exports to Arab states are valued at more than double the value of imports from the region, highlighting sustained demand for Irish products such as dairy, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, electronics and transport equipment.
Other markets of note include €60m in exports to Algeria, €53m to Kuwait and €45m to Qatar.
Ahmad Younis, CEO of AICC, said recent CSO data showing Irish exports to the United States falling by almost 60% between May and June illustrates the risks of Ireland’s over-reliance on a single market.
“By contrast, trade with Arab states has remained consistent," he said.
"Growing populations together with a reliance on imports are creating significant demand and there is now a golden opportunity for Irish companies willing to look beyond traditional trade partners and markets."
(Pic: Getty Images)
