Last updated: 14 Apr 2012
Market profile
Doing business
The business culture in Ireland is similar to elsewhere in Europe, with a preference for open dialogue and less rigid formality.
More information on doing business in Ireland
Country Profile
Content supplied by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- ECONOMIC CLIMATE
In the 15 years to 2007 Ireland's GDP growth per capita was the fastest in the OECD. However, Ireland's economy quickly declined in 2008, with output contracting by about 10 per cent over 2008-09.
» read more at DFAT
- TRADE RELATIONS
Ireland was Australia's 29th largest merchandise trading partner in 2010-11.
» read more at DFAT
- POLITICAL CLIMATE
Ireland is a republic, with a system of parliamentary democracy. Under the Constitution, legislative power is vested in the Parliament (Oireachtas).
» read more at DFAT
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Bilateral agreements
Australia has social security agreements with several countries that address the issue of 'double super coverage' for employees sent to work overseas. To take advantage of these agreements, Australian employers sending employees overseas to work must apply to the Tax Office for a Certificate of coverage.
For more details, please visit the Australian Taxation Office website.