Irish businesses face 'complete uncertainty' as Trump’s tariff deadline looms

US president Donald Trump is due to reimpose steep tariffs on dozens of economies, including the EU from July 9. Picture: Chip Somodevilla/Getty

Businesses have outlined serious concerns to the Government about Donald Trump's tariff deadline which is just one week away.

A meeting of the Government trade forum was described as being "more heat than light" as the Tánaiste and minister for finance sought input from State agencies, business and farming groups and trade unions.

The back and forth which took place between the Government and select business groups did not achieve constructive progress, according to business leaders in attendance.

The Irish Farmers' Association raised concern at the impact 10% tariffs would have particularly on the dairy and tillage sectors. It told the meeting the tillage sector is already feeling the impact with a "huge drop" in demand for barley for distilling in 2025.

There was a general consensus among the groups that plans and policy cannot be based on the uncertainty and unpredictability of the Trump administration.

Instead, focus should be on the things that are within Ireland's control such as diversifying markets.

A number of stakeholders raised concerns around the reliance on civil servants in the US and in Brussels as the representatives on the ground when it comes to negotiations.

It is felt that given the complexity of the trade situation, it might be an idea to send over people on secondment who have experience in the business world.

Those at the meeting told Mr Harris it should not be diplomats taking on this role but rather individuals with commercial knowledge and experience who can bring expertise into the discussions.

The meeting heard from Paschal Donohoe that Ireland's economy will continue to grow over the next two years although not at the same rate as would have been expected without the threat of tariffs.

Mr Donohoe's analysis was based on 10% being universally applied without making assumptions in relation to any sectoral exemptions.

Simon Harris said that Ireland and the EU will seek to maximise the number of areas where trade will flow freely and tariff-free.