Ireland and the USA: a shared economic story

Ireland and the United States share one of the world’s most dynamic economic relationships.

It is a partnership built on deep historic ties, shared values, and a spirit of innovation that connects communities and businesses across the Atlantic.

Ireland and the US share a story of partnership that is mutually beneficial; a relationship that creates jobs, drives innovation, and builds opportunity for people on both sides of the Atlantic.

Ireland and the US have a significant and mutually beneficial economic relationship. The economic benefits flow both ways, creating prosperity and jobs for large numbers of people on both sides of the Atlantic.

The US is Ireland’s largest trading and investment partner. American companies have long recognised Ireland as a trusted partner in Europe and a place where global businesses can thrive, innovate, and connect to EU and international markets. Today, Ireland hosts a vibrant ecosystem of US companies that create high-quality jobs, support local communities, and drive growth in key sectors.

Ireland is the 5th largest source of foreign direct investment into the US, with investment by Irish companies worth $390 billion. Irish businesses are part of the fabric of American life, employing over 200,000 people across the country and bringing skills, entrepreneurship, and a global outlook to local economies.

The transatlantic economy is not just about numbers: it is about people and ideas.

Irish universities and US institutions maintain deep partnerships that provide numerous opportunities for students and researchers. Irish universities are collaborating with US institutions in frontier fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and clean energy.

Research partnerships

More than 30m Americans, 9% of the entire population claim Irish heritage. Alongside this affinity diaspora, there are over 116,000 Irish citizens who call the US home. To facilitate these people to people links, and the subsequent tourism that flows each way, there are over 29 direct flights to US cities from 3 Irish airports.

This connectivity keeps our people connected, our economies growing, and our shared story moving forward.

Visitors

Today, the Ireland-US relationship has never been more significant. It is a partnership grounded in trust, strengthened by shared ambition, and inspired by the generations of people who have built connections across the Atlantic.