China set to be Ireland’s fourth largest export market

China is set to overtake the likes of France and Japan to become Ireland’s fourth largest export destination by 2030, the Irish Exporters’ Association has forecast.

In Cork yesterday to launch this year’s programme of events for the Asia Trade Forum, IEA vice president and forum chairman Hugh Kelly said that looking to eastern markets is imperative for Irish exporting firms.

He added that Irish exports to China alone are likely to grow by 11% per year up to 2030; with similar growth rates expected to countries such as India, Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia.