Ireland's relationship with China
Ireland and China established diplomatic relations in 1979. Ireland has a vibrant and constructive relationship with China, informed by our values and by the multilateral system, in which we are both stakeholders.
In line with Ireland’s Asia-Pacific Strategy, the Embassy of Ireland, our Consulates General in Shanghai and Hong Kong, and our State Agencies work together under a Team Ireland approach to deepen diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations, and strengthening cooperation in education and agriculture; while promoting Ireland’s interests and values, raising Ireland’s profile, and supporting Irish citizens.
Continued political engagement, including through high level visits, is also a key part of our bilateral relationship.
Economic relations
Ireland is committed to strengthening the existing trade, investment and economic links with China. Our state agencies in China - Enterprise Ireland, Bord Bia, IDA Ireland and Tourism Ireland - play a key role in supporting trade promotion, foreign direct investment and agri-food exports.
China is Ireland's largest trading partner in Asia. Exports to China are driven by medical equipment, pharmaceuticals and computer services as well as agri-food and increasingly, financial services. There is significant investment by Chinese companies in Ireland, and by Irish companies in China.
Cultural connections
Cultural exchange is an important part of forming closer bonds, particularly through people-to-people contact, which helps to builds mutual understanding. The people of Ireland and China are both deeply proud of their respective cultural identities. They are also eager to understand and experience other cultures.
The sharing of rich traditions, arts, and heritage encourages connection, creativity, and creates opportunities for creative industries. In particular, Irish literature, music and dance are increasingly popular in China, especially among younger generations.
Education
Education cooperation is an important element of Ireland’s relationship with China. As a world-class destination for study, Ireland continues to attract a large number of Chinese students.
Several of Ireland’s leading universities have strong and growing exchange and collaboration programmes with Chinese counterpart institutions. China is also Ireland’s main partner for Trans National Education (TNE), with the number of joint programmes taught at Chinese universities doubling since 2014.
People-to-people links
Many Irish people visit China for work, study, tourism and family visits. The Irish community in China is a valued part of deepening bonds between our two countries, and contributes to links across business, education, cultural and sporting life.
China has a large diaspora based in Ireland and there are also increasing numbers of Chinese people visiting Ireland for study, business and tourism. These vibrant people-to-people connections show the solid foundations on which our bilateral relationship is built.