WEALTH June 30, 2026 0 Comments

Why Irish Exporters Who Fail to Pivot Now Will Be Ghosted by Global Markets Tomorrow – Here’s the Survival Playbook

Ever wonder how Irish exporters are navigating the choppy waters of today’s geopolitical storm? With global uncertainties throwing curveballs at supply chains and shipping lanes, it’s clear that sticking to the “old ways” just won’t cut it anymore. At a recent briefing hosted by the Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce (AICC), business leaders from the Middle East and Ireland came together to unravel the complex puzzle of trading in these unpredictable times. Despite the chaos — and believe me, it’s pretty intense — demand for Irish products remains surprisingly robust across the Middle East. But here’s the kicker: survival and success now hinge on smart market diversification, shrewd logistics, and razor-sharp risk management. It’s not just about weathering the storm; it’s about spotting the hidden opportunities that lie beyond. Ready to dive into what it takes to thrive when the world’s spinning off-course? Let’s unpack the insights that could redefine how Irish businesses play the global game. LEARN MORE

Irish exporters must adopt new strategies around market diversification, logistics and risk management to withstand rising geopolitical uncertainty, according to speakers at a business briefing hosted by the Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce (AICC).

The event, titled Doing Business in a Time of Geopolitical Uncertainty, brought together exporters and business leaders with interests across the Middle East to examine the impact of ongoing regional conflict and wider global instability on Irish companies trading internationally.

Delegates heard that while disruption to shipping routes and supply chains has created significant challenges, demand for Irish products across the Middle East remains resilient, presenting long-term opportunities for businesses willing to remain engaged.

AICC chief executive Ahmad Younis said Irish exporters are facing increasing pressure to maintain access to key markets but insisted the region continues to offer significant commercial potential.

“The demand for Irish goods across the region remains strong despite the conflict, but Irish exporters are having to work harder than ever to get products into Middle Eastern markets, and they need support to do so,” he said.

Younis acknowledged that some businesses had paused trading or sought alternative markets but said many had continued operating because of established customer relationships and confidence in the region’s long-term economic prospects.

“Demand for Irish goods is not disappearing. The challenge now is ensuring Irish businesses, particularly SMEs, have the strategy, market intelligence and support required to protect and grow their international business,” he added.

The briefing also examined the wider economic implications of geopolitical instability.

Martin O’Brien, Head of Monetary Division and Interim Head of Irish Economic Analysis Division at the Central Bank of Ireland, warned that tensions in the region could weigh on Irish and European economic growth while increasing inflationary pressures through higher energy and commodity costs.

He highlighted the impact of disruption to shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, which has placed additional strain on global supply chains.

“Geopolitical tensions are creating challenges for global trade, with the resulting rise in costs for energy and other commodities filtering through to businesses and households in Ireland,” O’Brien said.

However, he noted that Ireland entered the current period of uncertainty from a position of relative economic strength, adding that businesses had demonstrated resilience and adaptability during previous global shocks.

Industry leaders with extensive experience in the Middle East also stressed the importance of maintaining a long-term outlook despite current volatility.

Jim Healy, chief executive of energy-efficient lighting company Nulumentek, said businesses should focus on what they can control.

“Companies that stay agile, diversify risk and remain focused on customer needs will be best positioned to succeed, particularly in markets that continue to invest and grow despite global uncertainty,” he said.

Michael Connolly, an Irish entrepreneur based in the UAE with businesses in the agri and equine nutrition sectors, argued that relationships built during difficult periods would deliver long-term rewards.

“The war will end, but relationships won’t,” he said, adding that trust, consistency and understanding local culture would prove more valuable than reacting to short-term disruption.

Irish exporters — Delegates heard that while disruption to shipping routes and supply chains has created significant challenges, demand for Irish products across the Middle East remains resilient, presenting long-term opportunities for businesses willing to remain engaged.

Edward O’Regan of Blackwater Partners also pointed to continued investment and economic diversification across many Middle Eastern countries, while Lakeland Dairies Food Ingredients’ Business Development Manager Desmond Hurley said strong demand for high-quality Irish dairy products continued despite the logistical challenges facing exporters.

Closing the event, Younis said businesses that continue investing in relationships, market intelligence and diversification during the current period of uncertainty would be best positioned to capitalise on future opportunities across the Arab world.

Photo: Ahmand Younis, CEO, Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce were Anita Thomas, country head, Emirates and Jim Healy, CEO, Nulumentek. Picture Jason Clarke