Murphy heads trade mission to North America

Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister is in North America this week as part of a five-day visit aimed at strengthening economic ties.

Conor Murphy was joined by representatives from Invest NI and his visit included stops in Chicago and Toronto.

During the week, the Minister will lead a trade mission of twelve innovative Northern Ireland businesses representing sectors including financial services, insurance, education, green energy and manufacturing.

Minister Murphy will also highlight Northern Ireland’s unique trading position post-Brexit, with access to both EU and UK markets.

Speaking in Chicago, Minister Murphy said: “The United States and Canada are the two most important markets for the North, both in terms of exports and foreign investment. Over 320 North American companies have chosen to settle here.

In the twelve months to March 2024, exports to these markets were worth £2.3bn, demonstrating the wealth of opportunities available to local businesses.

“This week I will be meeting with key business and policy leaders to strengthen our transatlantic relationship and build on our shared achievements. I am also proud to lead a delegation of 12 companies from the North as we explore new partnerships and growth opportunities.

“In addition, this week I will be highlighting dual market access, which is a key advantage for businesses looking to expand, and which, combined with our strong business environment, makes the north an ideal location for foreign direct investment.”

During his visit, Minister Murphy will also meet with the Northern Ireland diaspora to thank them for their ongoing engagement and support and to reaffirm the strong ties between Northern Ireland, the United States and Canada.

He will also meet with key representatives of the tourism sector in Chicago and Toronto to promote the great tourist offer of the North to tourists from America and Canada.

Andrea Haughian, Executive Vice President and Head of North America at Invest Ireland, highlighted the significance of the visit.

“Exports are the backbone of Northern Ireland’s economic growth and trade missions like this play a vital role in helping our businesses succeed internationally,” she added.

“This week we are focusing on strengthening partnerships and creating new opportunities for Northern Ireland businesses. We look forward to engaging with potential trading partners and demonstrating the unique benefits that Northern Ireland offers to both investors and businesses.”

As stated in the accompanying press release, the visiting delegation includes companies from various sectors offering innovative technology solutions for many industries, including financial services, insurance, education, green energy and manufacturing.

“All of these Northern Ireland-based companies have global customers and some already have a significant presence in terms of customers and operations in North America.”