Barcelona-bound: Irish firms target global mobile phone market

IRISH firms are this week targeting the global phone market, worth an estimated €300 billion.

A mission of more than 20 Irish companies, led by Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Micheál Martin, is heading to the world’s largest mobile technology show in Barcelona this week.

The Mobile World Congress is expected to draw 60,000 visitors from the world’s leading mobile phone firms and operators.

Irish firms participating vary in size, some have almost 200 employees, while others are smaller but provide specialised services to the sector such as mobile television, email and content ranging from sport, news and time-tables.

Irish exports in the provision of software and hardware to the phone sector are expected to hit €260m this year, double the figure for 2005.

During the visit to Barcelona, Mr Martin is expected to identify this high-tech sector as a major target for Ireland into the future.

Enterprise Ireland will also be using the four days of the Congress to help Irish firms form new contacts with the world’s leading mobile phone operators and firms.

Speaking ahead of the week, Manager of software and retail consumer sectors with Enterprise Ireland, Jennifer Condon said: “The growth of new mobile communications companies from Ireland continues to be strong and Ireland now boasts over 70 mobile/ wireless technology companies.

“These companies win substantial deals with tier-one global operators and are focused on increasing their reach through partnerships networks with leading operators, distributors and subsidiaries.

“Ireland continues to be a centre of excellence for the development of new and innovative mobile and wireless technologies. This year’s participants are at the forefront of their respective industry sectors.”

Two billion people worldwide subscribe to mobile services — paying €1.9 billion — that is expected to increase to three billion people and €2.7bn in the next two years.