Businesses across Dublin remain under pressure from rising costs and regulatory burdens, according to the Dublin Chamber Q4 2025 Business Outlook Report. The survey of businesses across the Greater Dublin Area shows that regulation, labour costs and property costs weigh heavily on performance.
Regulation remains a major constraint. More than seven-in-ten businesses (71%) say Ireland’s regulatory system limits their ability to operate effectively. Tax and revenue compliance, along with employment and HR regulation, have been identified as the most costly and time-consuming requirements.
Cost pressures remain acute. Labour costs are the biggest driver of expenditure for nearly four-in-five firms (79%). Property-related costs affect 43% of businesses, while professional services (33%) and regulatory compliance (31%) continue to add significantly to overheads.
Commenting on the findings, Aebhric Mc Gibney, Director of Public & International Affairs at Dublin Chamber, said, “The message from businesses is clear. Firms are adapting and investing where possible, but rising labour costs and regulatory complexity are constraining growth and competitiveness. A stronger focus on cost, simple regulation and infrastructure investment is needed.”
“Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has set up the Cost of Business Action Group, which is due to report its work this quarter. This group cannot be a forum where a report is produced and gathers dust. The concrete actions that will arise from it must be implemented to ensure that costs and regulatory barriers are reduced”, McGibney said.
More than half (57%) have adopted AI, automation or new processes to improve efficiency. Half are increasing prices to pass on costs, while a further 50% have reduced staff numbers or paused recruitment. Many are also delaying planned investments.
When asked where Government action would have the greatest impact, businesses point first to labour and wage costs (65%). Housing and transport investment follows (54%), alongside the need to simplify regulation (44%).
About Dublin Chamber: Dublin Chamber is Ireland’s largest chamber of commerce with over 1000 member companies. It is the most representative and broadly-based business group in the Greater Dublin Area, providing representation and networking services. Its policy work focuses on developing the Dublin region’s infrastructure & transport, promoting competitiveness, and improving local governance. Dublin Chamber is also one of the oldest chambers of commerce in the world, tracing its origins back to 1782.
For further information please contact:
Stephen Browne | Head of Public Affairs | Dublin Chamber | stephen@dublinchamber.ie