An Overview of the Irish Economy

An Overview of the Irish Economy

Introduction

Ireland is a small, modern, trade-dependent economy with growth averaging a robust 8% in 1995-2002. Agriculture, once the most important sector, is now dwarfed by industry, which accounts for 45% of GDP, about 80% of exports, and employs 28% of the labor force. Although exports remain the primary engine for Ireland's robust growth, the economy is also benefiting from a rise in consumer spending, construction, and business investment. Over the past decade, the Irish government has implemented a series of national economic programs designed to curb inflation, reduce government spending, increase labor force skills, and promote foreign investment. Ireland joined in launching the euro currency system in January 1999 along with 10 other EU nations. The economy felt the impact of the global economic slowdown in 2001-02, particularly in the high-tech export sector; the growth rate was cut by half.

GDP

Population and employment

Industries

Industrial production growth rate: 6% (2002 est.)

Electricity

Agricultural products

Exports

Imports

Debt

Economic aid - donor

Currency

Fiscal year: calendar year

Related Materials

[Source: http://www.odci.gov/cia/publications/factbook/print/ei.html]


Postcolonial OV Ireland

Last modified: 26 May 2003