Ireland's Economy
Ireland at a Glance
An overview of Ireland's economy - small, open and home to many multinational headquarters - and why its GDP figures can be misleading.
Ireland has about 5.4 million people.
Rich on paper
- Ireland’s GDP per person is among the highest in the world.
- But much of this reflects multinational profits booked in Ireland.
Multinationals
- Tech: Apple, Google, Meta and Microsoft have large European operations in Ireland.
- Pharma: many of the world’s top drug companies manufacture there.
Other sectors
- Agriculture: beef and dairy.
- Financial services in Dublin.
- Tourism.
EU and euro
Ireland joined the EEC in 1973 and uses the euro.
English-speaking
After Brexit, Ireland is the largest English-speaking country in the EU, attracting firms.
Why study Ireland
Ireland shows how a small economy can grow rich through foreign investment, and the risks of dependence.
The Dublin headquarters
A US tech firm runs its European operations from Dublin, booking much of its EU sales revenue in Ireland.
Thinking GDP per person always reflects living standards
Ireland's GDP is inflated by multinational profits.
Key takeaways
- Ireland has about 5.4 million people.
- Its GDP per person is among the world's highest on paper.
- Tech and pharma multinationals dominate.
- It's the EU's largest English-speaking country after Brexit.
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