Canada Ireland Trade Nearly Doubles Since 2017 CETA Implementation

Trade and economic relations between Canada and Ireland have significantly strengthened since the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was provisionally applied in 2017, with bilateral trade nearly doubling by 2023. Both countries have benefited from increased exports and investments, as Canadian foreign direct investment in Ireland surged by 131 percent since 2016, and Ireland is now the 10th largest investor in Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney and An Taoiseach Micheál Martin recently reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation, emphasizing the importance of Ireland's full CETA ratification by 2026 to unlock further business opportunities and promote sustainable growth. They also highlighted shared commitments to global issues such as support for Ukraine and peace efforts in the Middle East and Northern Ireland. Plans were announced for high-level trade delegations and sectoral visits focusing on energy, security, and innovation to build on this momentum. The relationship is seen as a gateway for Canada into the European Union and a foundation for enhanced resilience and collaboration.