The Gulf conflict: Irish businesses face export challenges and opportunities

Despite the disruptions to trade caused by the conflict, we must not lose sight of a bigger, more long-term reality: the Arab world remains a vital partner for Irish enterprise

Irish merchandise exports to the Arab world were valued at more than €3bn in 2025.

As Ireland’s fuel suppliers and aviation industry battle the far-reaching consequences of conflict in the Arab world, our exporters, including many small businesses, are also confronting a growing challenge.

Pharma companies, food producers and medical manufacturers are among those feeling the pressure. Many of these businesses rely heavily on air freight, a transport lifeline that has been severely disrupted as the US-Israeli war with Iran continues to destabilise the region.