John Whelan: Irish trade momentum remains exposed to new global barriers

After decades of international trade growth, driven by free trade agreements, many countries are putting up restrictions to trade.

During the covid-19 pandemic, many countries restricted exports of medical goods such as vaccines, as well as some foodstuffs. File Picture: David Creedon

Last week, Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney gave a call-to-duty to Ireland’s exporting franchisees at the Trade Horizons conference in Dublin Castle.

In particular he was calling for a greater focus by business on free trade agreements (FTAs) which, to date, were the bedrock of Ireland’s export and economic success.