The German Embassy in association with the German-Irish Chamber of Industry and Commerce introduced the results of a study and the launch of a newly established German Desk during an event entitled “Stronger trade relations with Germany”.
A report, commissioned by the German-Irish Chamber of Commerce, was presented, to outline which UK goods in a post-Brexit scenario are likely to be substituted in the Irish market by Irish and German goods.
The audience learned what challenges companies, all located in Ireland and already doing export/import with Germany, are facing now that Brexit is looming, and how they are preparing their supply chains.
The German-Irish Chamber of Industry and Commerce launched its new “German Desk,” which will be staffed by expert personnel dedicated to helping businesses based in Ireland strengthen their trading relationship with Germany. The initiative is part of the Chamber’s ongoing response to the Brexit challenge and its core mission to further develop Irish-German economic links.
The Chamber is especially keen to assist Irish companies develop efficient, sustainable and affordable supply chains to continental Europe in the aftermath of Brexit. Support for the Sea Bridge between Ireland would offer alternative, viable supply chains to Irish companies and it would also allow Ireland to enhance trade with Germany. Outlining the Chamber’s thinking, Dr Jack Golden, Chairman of the Kuratorium of the German-Irish Chamber of Industry and Commerce, said
“UK ports do not have the infrastructure or holding capacity to accommodate up to 9 Kilometres of trucks that could arise at the UK point of entry or exit after Brexit. Given the delays and corresponding extra costs that Brexit will create for companies using the UK land-bridge, the Seabridge could be commercially viable and cheaper, especially for non-perishable goods. The German-Irish Chamber of Commerce is seeking support for EU state investment in Irish port capacity and our Germany desk will be advising companies on how Irish goods can best get speedy access to the German market and beyond.”
The Chamber believes that by encouraging Seabridge routes, Ireland will be able to import better and cheaper products directly from continental Europe, including Germany. The Chamber also maintains that Irish exporters need certainty and that with the right supports the Seabridge can provide this.
Publications on the topic
Presentation of Philip Kennedy, CEO Ei Electronics Germany
Presentation of Ciaran Aylward, Economist, Ornua Co-operative Dublin
Presentation of Eddie Goodwin, Manager Germany, Switzerland and Austria
Presentation von Vinzenz Hingerl, Head of Customs, DACHSER
Presentation von Shaun Ryan, Commercial Manager, Quality Freight
Programme of the Chamber event "Stronger Trade Relations with Germany" at the 25th September 2019
Presentation of Edgar Morgenroth