Exports from firms backed by Enterprise Ireland rose to €34.5bn last year

This was up from the €32.1bn figure for 2022.

Non-food exports grew by 8pc in 2023, according to new figures published by the state agency today.

The UK accounted for 29pc of total export trade last year, with exports rising by 6pc to €9.97bn.

Food exports to this market were up 7pc to €4.76bn, while industrial and life sciences exports rose 3pc across the year to €3.25bn.

Technology and services exports to the UK market also increased 8pc to €1.96bn last year.

The Eurozone accounted for a quarter of total sales in 2023, the state agency reported.

Total exports rose by 2pc to €8.61bn. This was driven by food and sustainability exports of €4.28bn, which fell 7pc year-on-year.

Technology and services exports jumped 19pc across the region to €1.47bn.

The largest export markets for Enterprise Ireland-backed firms in the Eurozone last year were Germany, France and the Netherlands.

Exports to North America also grew by 5pc to €6.48bn. This market accounted for 19pc of exports.

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“Irish exporters have remained committed to investing in the UK, our largest trading partner, and the 6pc growth in exports justifies that commitment,” chief executive Leo Clancy said.

“Technology, Industrial and Lifesciences exporters continue to thrive in North America, particularly the USA, with exports in these combined sectors up 8pc to €5.17bn,” he added.

Total food exports dipped by 4pc to €15.69bn following volatility in international dairy sales and prices.

However, technology and services exports were up 10pc year-on-year to €8.49bn. Companies in the industrial and life sciences sectors also recorded an increase in demand in 2023, with exports rising 7pc to €10.38bn.

“Overall, industrial, life sciences and construction exports have surpassed €10bn exports and reflective of the calibre of Irish software being produced, we would expect technology and international services exports will also reach that €10bn milestone,” Mr Clancy said.

Enterprise Ireland client companies also spent €39.3bn in the Irish economy last year, according to research from the state agency. This included €11.7bn on payroll expenses.

Around 225,495 people were employed by the companies, with 68pc located outside of Dublin.

Top challenges highlighted by client companies include retention of staff, as well as access to finance. Many also noted the cost of doing business and inflation, as well as changes in the economic and political climate.

“Across a variety of sectors and international markets, Irish exporters have made significant gains and continue to grow their influence internationally, despite a more challenging international business environment and rising costs,” Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke said.