Guide to investing in Ireland

More than 1,200 multinational companies have chosen Ireland as their platform for international expansion, employing almost 200,000 people in Ireland as of January 2017. This includes some of the world’s largest companies from sectors such as technology, life sciences, financial services and fintech, internet, engineering and business services. Many of these companies are undertaking strategic activities in Ireland including advanced manufacturing, research and development (R&D) and global business services.

Ireland’s ability to continually attract foreign multinationals is a testament to the breadth of incentives available to prospective investors, as well as its sophisticated, but flexible, business environment. Key incentives for foreign investors include the Irish government’s positive attitude towards promoting foreign direct investment (FDI), committed membership of the European Union, a highly skilled and English-speaking workforce, a favourable corporate tax regime and the general ease of doing business in Ireland. Ireland’s strength as an investment location is perfect for attracting Chinese business seeking to build a successful European business.

The Irish government is keen to ensure that there are no barriers to entry for international trade or investment. Through organisations like IDA Ireland (the Irish government’s inward investment promotional agency), the Irish government seeks to foster a pro-business environment, which has led to the country being one of the most open economies in the world. In the 2016 IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook, Ireland ranked seventh of the 61 countries benchmarked globally, making it one of the most attractive business locations in the world.

Marie O’Brien is a partner at A&L Goodbody in Dublin and head of the firm’s China business group. She can be contacted on +353 1 649 2705, by email at mobrien@algoodbody.com, or by adding the WeChat account of marieobrienALG