Sluggish growth predicted for exporters in 2012

THE outlook for exports in 2012 is one of “sluggish growth”, the sector’s main representative body has said.

The Irish Exporters’ Association (IEA) made this pronouncement yesterday, as it published its 2011 annual review. That summary of 2011 showed continued good growth for Irish exports, albeit with a noticeable slowing down in the second half of the year.

In all, Irish exports grew by nearly 5% in 2011, or by €8bn, to €171bn — mainly on the back of a rapid expansion in international trade during the first six months.