DOING BUSINESS IN IRELAND

Doing Business in Ireland

Ireland offers businesses a gateway to the European Union with access to over 450 million consumers. Its pro-business environment, competitive 12.5% corporate tax rate, and robust infrastructure make it ideal for investment and trade.

Who We Are

For over 100 years, Ireland has played a pivotal role in Kenya’s development through:

Education: Establishing renowned institutions such as Loreto College Limuru and St. Mary’s Nairobi.

Healthcare: Founding critical facilities like Mater Hospital.

Humanitarian Aid: Supporting Kenyan communities through organizations like Trocaire, Concern Worldwide, and Irish Aid.

Today, Ireland continues to contribute through development programs, emergency relief, and trade collaborations.

The growing presence of Irish companies in Kenya reflects the strengthening economic ties and trade partnerships between the two nations. Ireland’s focus on expanding its footprint in Africa has seen an increasing number of companies venturing into key sectors such as ICT, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and renewable energy within Kenya.

Key Highlights:

  • Sector Growth: Irish firms are active in healthcare, technology, and agri-business, leveraging Kenya’s strategic position in East Africa.
  • Partnership Opportunities: Collaborations with Kenyan businesses are driving innovation and knowledge exchange, particularly in sustainable development projects.
  • Reopening of Irish Companies: Irish enterprises with historic ties to Kenya are re-establishing operations, contributing to job creation and infrastructure development.

This upward trend signifies Ireland’s commitment to fostering long-term partnerships that benefit both nations economically and socially.

The reopening of Irish companies in Kenya marks a renewed commitment to deepening economic and social ties between the two countries. These companies, many with historical connections to Kenya, are re-establishing operations in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology, where Ireland has traditionally made significant contributions.

Business Ireland Kenya (BIK) operates on a foundation of core principles that guide its efforts to strengthen economic, social, and cultural ties between Ireland and Kenya. These principles ensure effective collaboration and mutual growth for businesses and stakeholders in both countries.

Core Principles:

  1. Collaboration:
    • Fostering partnerships between Irish and Kenyan businesses across sectors to drive innovation and shared success.
  2. Inclusivity:
    • Supporting businesses of all sizes, from startups to established enterprises, and promoting diverse, equitable opportunities.
  3. Sustainability:
    • Encouraging environmentally responsible practices and sustainable investments to benefit future generations.
  4. Integrity:
    • Upholding transparency, accountability, and ethical business practices in all engagements.
  5. Empowerment:
    • Providing resources, networks, and knowledge to enable businesses and individuals to thrive in their ventures.

BIK’s commitment to these principles ensures meaningful impact and long-lasting partnerships between Ireland and Kenya

Ireland Economy

Investing in and Sourcing from a Competitive Ireland

Growth in exports has been across all sectors and main export markets. Particularly strong growth was seen in Lifesciences, Cleantech and ICT. Ireland’s competitiveness relative to our trading partners has improved significantly in recent years. Labour costs, commercial property prices and other business costs have fallen.

Startups

In recent years, Ireland has also developed into a vibrant start-up location, offering an ecosystem that provides access to skills, finance, innovative suppliers and customers. In fact, start-up activity is at a record high and we are the top entrepreneurial country in Europe according to recent studies, ranking among the best in the EU in terms of innovation output. High growth female-led start-ups now account for 24% of new start-ups and, in the technology sector in particular, Dublin is a leading European hub for start-ups, fast-growing firms and talent. Economic Growth and Employment he turnaround in Ireland’s fortunes over the past several years has been remarkable. This has not only been possible due to hard political decisions being taken and implemented, but also because of the resolve of the Irish people. The Irish people have always been our country’s greates ass

Growth & Investment

Ireland’s economy continues to expand across all major sectors, with exceptional growth in Lifesciences, Cleantech, and ICT. Its attractiveness to investors has grown due to a combination of competitive business costs, including lower labor costs and reduced commercial property prices. Over the years, Ireland has solidified its position as a global investment hub, offering opportunities in diverse industries. Notably, startups are thriving, especially in Dublin, which has become one of Europe’s leading tech hubs. The country’s economic recovery has been remarkable, with significant foreign investment and a strong focus on innovation driving growth.

Doing Business Ranking

Ireland is consistently ranked among the top countries for business in global rankings. As of the 2020 World Bank’s Doing Business Report, Ireland ranked 24th out of 190 countries for ease of doing business. The country’s pro-business environment, streamlined processes, and tax incentives contribute to its high standing. It offers a favorable regulatory environment, competitive corporate tax rates, and is recognized for its openness to foreign direct investment. Ireland continues to enhance its business landscape through infrastructure improvements, innovation, and policies aimed at attracting global businesses and fostering economic growth.

Ireland Business Environment

Ireland offers a highly competitive business environment, marked by low corporate tax rates, an educated and skilled workforce, and strategic access to global markets, particularly within the European Union. The Business Environment in Ireland is supported by modern infrastructure, robust ICT networks, and favorable policies for foreign investors. The country’s business ecosystem thrives on innovation, with Dublin being a significant hub for startups and multinational companies. Ireland’s commitment to sustainability, coupled with a focus on digital transformation and renewable energy, makes it an attractive destination for long-term investment. The government’s active support for entrepreneurship and innovation helps foster a dynamic business environment for both established companies and emerging startups.

Economic Trends

Ireland has experienced significant economic growth, with strong trends in exports, particularly in the ICT, Lifesciences, and Pharmaceuticals sectors. The country’s GDP growth has been steady, bolstered by an increase in both foreign direct investment and exports. The technology sector continues to drive economic innovation, and with record-high startup activity, Ireland has cemented its position as one of the most entrepreneurial countries in Europe. Furthermore, Ireland’s emphasis on clean energy and sustainability is evident in its push to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix, with the aim to reach 60% renewable energy by 2027.

Economic Overview

Ireland’s economy is diverse and export-driven, with sectors such as ICT, Lifesciences, and Agriculture playing key roles in economic output. The country’s corporate tax rate remains one of the lowest in the EU, encouraging both domestic and foreign investment. Ireland has a highly skilled workforce and ranks highly for innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in the technology and pharmaceutical sectors. In recent years, the country has strengthened its position in the global economy, with an increasingly competitive edge in exports and foreign direct investment (FDI). With a strategic focus on innovation, infrastructure, and sustainability, Ireland offers a strong economic foundation for businesses looking to grow and expand in both European and global markets.