Open an Agricultural Business in Ireland

Updated on Tuesday 10th April 2018

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The agricultural sector in Ireland is a developed field of activity, as the country enjoys a suitable climate for growing various types of crops. The Irish agri-food sector generated 5,7% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) at the level of 2015, which accounted for EUR 13,54 billion. Ireland conducts relevant export activities related to the agri-food products, which, in the same year, accounted for 9.8% of the total amount of exports.

Another important aspect concerning this industry refers to the employment level. Out of the total employment market in Ireland, the agri-food industry employs 8,5% of the workforce. Our team of lawyers in Ireland can advise on the employment regulations prescribed for the employers performing business activities in the agricultural sector.

Top export agricultural products in Ireland

In 2016, companies providing agricultural products had as a main trading partner the United Kingdom, which accounted for 37% of the entire Irish agri-food exports. The following main trading partner was the European Union (32%), while the rest of the exports were addressed to other international markets. Our team of Irish lawyers can further advise on the regulations concerning export activities.

Businessmen who want to register a company in Ireland in this field should know that the highest demand of Irish agri-food products was registered for the following:

• dairy products (30%);

• beef (21%);

• prepared consumer products (17%);

• beverages (13%);

• pork meat (6%);

• seafood (5%);

• poultry (3%);

• sheep meat (2%);

• horticulture and cereals (25);

• live animals (1%).

Business prospects for the near future in Ireland

By 2025, the Irish agri-food sector will further increase, following the solid growth trend. According to the projections related to this industry, by 2025, the value of the exports will increase to EUR 19 billion. It is expected to experience an increase in the value of primary production that will reach EUR 10 billion.

Also, this industry may create an additional 23,000 jobs, representing employment in all types of activities related to the agri-food supply chain.

Businessmen are invited to contact our law firm in Ireland for consultancy services regarding the business permits that can be imposed to an agricultural business, depending on its specific business objectives.