Ireland’s technology trade shows resilience despite decline in overall exports – BDO Ireland analysi

Lorna Kelly, Director in Customs and International Trade Services at BDO was featured in Business Plus with her commentary on the latest update from CSO.
Exports of office machinery and automatic data processing equipment increased by 141.5% to €1.4 billion, compared with €587.8 million in August 2025. 

Although this represents a reduction from the €2.3 billion recorded in July, the substantial year-on-year increase reinforces Ireland’s growing importance within global technology and advanced manufacturing supply chains.

This is particularly notable against the backdrop of continued international investment in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure.

Equally significant is the increase in imports of office machinery and automatic data processing equipment, which rose by 63.4% to €2 billion, compared with €1.2 billion in August 2025. The growth in both imports and exports highlights the increasingly interconnected nature of international technology supply chains and Ireland’s role within them.

Exports of medical and pharmaceutical products decreased by 6.7% to €6 billion in August, compared with €6.5 billion in August 2025, while organic chemical exports declined by 28.6% to €1.5 billion.

Pharmaceutical exports remain central to Ireland’s overall trading performance, although the latest figures indicate further moderation, following the exceptional levels recorded during 2025. 

READ FULL COMMENTARY 

For businesses operating in the technology and pharmaceutical sectors, this reinforces the importance of maintaining efficient customs procedures, accurate classification and reliable access to international markets, particularly as trade restrictions and regulatory requirements continue to evolve.

Lorna KellyDirector, Customs & International Trade Services, BDO Ireland

Ireland’s trading relationship with China also remains an important area to monitor, particularly within the semiconductor industry. Irish semiconductor exports to China have declined considerably in recent years, while alternative Asian markets, including Malaysia, have become increasingly important destinations. 

Lorna KellyDirector, Customs & International Trade Services, BDO Ireland

This changing pattern highlights the potential influence of international export controls, evolving manufacturing arrangements and geopolitical developments on global technology supply chains. While the precise drivers require further examination, these developments underline the importance of market diversification and the need for Irish exporters to remain responsive to changes in international trade policy.

Lorna KellyDirector, Customs & International Trade Services, BDO Ireland

Overall, the August figures demonstrate the importance of looking beyond headline export performance. While seasonally adjusted exports declined by 7.1% compared with July and the trade surplus narrowed to €2.6 billion, the continued annual growth in technology-related trade presents a more positive underlying development.

Lorna KellyDirector, Customs & International Trade Services, BDO Ireland

Find out how BDO experts can help your business

Learn moreOpens in a new window/tab