Manufacturing in Ireland

Manufacturing in Ireland is one of the high performing engines of the Irish economy with clusters of world class manufacturing operations in sectors such as biopharmaceuticals, engineering, medical technology, building materials, and food production.

Each year, the manufacturing sector adds an impressive €13.4 billion in wages and employment taxes and continues to set new records, exporting goods worth €208 billion in 2022. Additionally, it shoulders a significant portion of our nation’s corporation tax revenue at over 44% (over €10 billion), ensuring that our government has the resources to support essential public services. There are 275,000 people employed throughout the regions in the Irish manufacturing sector, 11% of total employment in the economy.

Ibec's latest report ‘Manufacturing in Ireland – Unlocking Ireland’s Manufacturing Potential for the next Manufacturing Evolution’ highlights manufacturing success in Ireland, its fundamental importance to our economy and presents the results of an October 2023 survey, along with Ibec's recommendations for continued growth and success in this sector.

Manufacturing in Ireland / Key Recommendations to Government

Labour and market competitiveness

Government must ensure support for rising employment costs and operationalise the comprehensive support programme put in place in Budget 2024.

Taxation and incentives

Continue to improve the R&D tax credit and introduce accelerated capital allowances for advanced manufacturing. Simplify the corporate tax regime and move to a territorial system of taxation.

Talent and innovation

Use the National Training Fund to support enterprise-led skills development and close the €307 million funding gap in higher education.

Digitalisation and advanced manufacturing

Develop, co-ordinate and adequately resource national cybersecurity and regulatory capacities in expected digital regulation impacting advanced manufacturing.

Sustainability and energy

Accelerate the transition to carbon neutrality by scaling up and expanding industry supports for renewables and energy efficiency. Provide new financial supports and tax credit incentives to encourage firms embed eco-design principles.

Trade and international relations

The EU should deepen the single market by creating a predictable regulatory environment that drives innovation, removes barriers, enforces existing rules and does more in the areas of services and capital.

Get in touch

For more than 30 years, Ibec and its 39 trade associations have delivered results for key sectors of the Irish Economy. We support thousands of businesses of every size, spanning every sector of the economy.

Together with our 39 trade associations, we promote a positive business environment in Ireland by campaigning for evidence-based policies that are formulated in consultation with our members.

For any questions or enquiries, please call us on 01 605 1500 or

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Sharon Higgins

Executive Director, Membership & Sectors

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