While the Irish economy entered 2025 in a position of strength, with near full employment and a newly elected government beginning to chart its course, the global environment has continued to shift rapidly. Deglobalisation, rising protectionism, and recent U.S. trade policy changes are just the beginning of a broader transformation in the international trading landscape - one that will have lasting consequences for Ireland’s open, export-driven economy. Dublin Chamber has already raised these concerns with the Department of Foreign Affairs, advocating for proactive government support for affected businesses, particularly those in the capital.
Amid this volatility, competitiveness has emerged as a central priority both at home and in Brussels. At EU level, the Draghi Report is shaping the European Commission’s strategic agenda. While domestically, the Irish Government has pledged to stay “laser focused” on competitiveness over the next five years. This commitment has been welcomed by Dublin’s business community, where one-in-three firms identify competitiveness as a top concern heading into Budget 2026.
At Dublin Chamber, we believe that strengthening Ireland’s competitiveness must begin in its capital city. Dublin is Ireland’s economic engine, driving national revenue, employment, and innovation. It is the country’s only international city of scale, home to a vibrant startup scene, world-class universities, and a skilled workforce. Its success fuels prosperity across the entire country. However, for Dublin to maintain its position, it requires sustained investment and policy action to tackle persistent infrastructure gaps, housing shortages, and rising business costs.
On 9th April, Dublin Chamber brought this message directly to Leinster House for the launch of our new report, Dublin: Economic Profile and Competitiveness. Joined by Oireachtas members including Cormac Devlin TD, James Geoghegan TD, Shane Moynihan TD, and Senator Mary Fitzpatrick, we highlighted critical barriers to the region’s growth and attractiveness, from housing and water infrastructure deficits to the impact of the Dublin Airport passenger cap. We also took this opportunity to highlight the many opportunities sitting on Dublin’s doorstep.
Our report can be read in full here. Over the coming weeks, we will continue our engagements with officials across all parties to advance a competitiveness-focused policy agenda that supports Dublin’s long-term economic success. If you have any questions or feedback regarding our report or on the issues affecting your business, please contact policy@dublinchamber.ie.