Communication - Press • Partners
Publication of the French Economic Footprint in Ireland 2025 Report
The French Economic Footprint in Ireland 2025 report, published today by the Embassy of France in Ireland, in partnership with the France-Ireland Chamber of Commerce, highlights the significant and growing contribution of French companies to Ireland’s economy, innovation, and sustainability.
The report will be formally launched on 13 November 2025 at 8 am at the iconic Jameson Distillery in Bow Street, Dublin. Jameson is the world’s best-selling Irish whiskey, and is owned by Irish Distillers, part of French group Pernod-Ricard.
Amid global uncertainty, including the recent announcement of U.S. tariffs, France remains a stable, reliable, and long-term economic partner for Ireland. French trade, investment, and services continue to support jobs, communities, and Ireland’s transition to a greener and more connected economy.
In 2024, France was Ireland’s leading EU supplier, providing 11% of Irish imports, just behind the UK and the US. Bilateral trade between France and Ireland amounted to nearly €50 billion in 2024, covering both goods and services. Bilateral trade in goods reached €14.2 billion, a 30% increase compared to pre-COVID levels, led by chemicals, transport, and agri-food. Trade in services reached €35.3 billion, up 75% since pre-pandemic levels, driven by consulting, ICT, and insurance.
With a stock of FDI in Ireland of €25,7 billion, France is the leading EU investor in Ireland and the fourth largest globally behind US, Japan and UK. More than 340 French-owned companies operate across all 26 counties, supporting 45,000 jobs and contributing to local communities.
“The publication of this report highlights the deep and long-term partnership between France and Ireland,” said Céline Place, French Ambassador to Ireland. “French companies are not only investing — they are embedded in Irish communities, helping drive innovation, sustainability, and connectivity for the future.”
Key findings from the report include:
- Energy & Climate: French-linked firms operate an estimated 680 MW of renewable energy capacity in Ireland, accounting for roughly 10% of the country’s total installed capacity and contributing to its energy transition.
- Infrastructure: French firms have contributed — and continue to contribute — to several major infrastructure projects in Ireland. For example, Egis manages 470 km of Irish motorways and contributes to major transport, housing, and health projects, Transdev operates the Luas light rail network, Alstom is preparing the next generation of DART trains, and Vinci Highways is introducing free-flow tolling on Dublin’s M50 motorway.
- Digitalisation: eir’s fibre and 5G rollout has made Ireland one of Europe’s most connected nations. Circet plays a key role in deploying and maintaining telecoms infrastructure across the country. Sia Partners supports Ireland’s digital transformation through its consulting expertise, while Legrand contributes to the development of digital infrastructure and smart building solutions nationwide.
- Health: Siel Bleu Ireland delivers programmes that maintain independence and reduce pressure on healthcare services. In the pharmaceutical sector, Sanofi, Servier, and Ipsen all have a strong presence in Ireland, while AXA Health Insurance operates nationwide, providing comprehensive coverage across the country.
- Connectivity & Trade: Brittany Ferries’ maritime and rail links strengthen Ireland’s links with continental Europe, boosting tourism and commerce. DPD, a French-owned company, delivers parcels nationwide through 37 depots, with at least one in every county. French firms such as CMA CGM and CEVA Logistics also play a key role in driving Irish trade through their global logistics networks.
The French Economic Footprint in Ireland 2025 report demonstrates how France is a trusted, long-term partner supporting Ireland’s economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
The report can be downloaded in full below.
Source : Embassy of France in Ireland
