Governor Josh Stein highlighted North Carolina’s position as a leading state for economic development and tourism during his recent visit to Ireland. The Governor’s trip included meetings with Irish officials and executives aimed at strengthening ties between the two regions. This visit underscores the growing relationship between North Carolina and Ireland, marked by significant business investments and export activities. The state has seen a notable increase in exports to Ireland, and Irish companies continue to invest in North Carolina’s economy.
Governor Stein emphasized the robust political, economic, and cultural connections between North Carolina and Ireland. Currently, nearly 50 Irish companies operate within the state, employing approximately 7,000 residents. The state’s exports to Ireland have surged, making it North Carolina’s tenth-largest export market. These developments were discussed in various meetings with Irish business and government leaders, where opportunities for further investment were explored.
During his visit, Governor Stein participated in a North Carolina Investment and Trade Seminar hosted by Enterprise Ireland, alongside meetings with Irish Ambassador to the United States Geraldine Byrne Mason and Minister of Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment Peter Burke. These discussions aimed to enhance economic and tourism collaborations. Additionally, Stein engaged with Irish business executives at a roundtable to discuss potential expansions in the U.S.
Tourism was another focal point during the visit. Governor Stein, with Visit NC, promoted North Carolina as an attractive destination for Irish tourists, noting that Ireland is among the top European markets for visits to the state. The recent launch of Aer Lingus’s year-round nonstop flight between Dublin and Raleigh, along with American Airlines’ seasonal service from Dublin to Charlotte, is expected to boost tourism and business exchanges.
The relationship between North Carolina and Ireland extends into life sciences, with pharmaceutical products accounting for 84% of the state’s exports to Ireland. North Carolina’s life sciences sector is a significant economic driver, employing over 225,000 people and generating $88.3 billion annually. The state is recognized as a top performer in business, workforce, and economic rankings, attributes that continue to attract international investment.
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