EU – Mexico trade deal a blueprint for Irish trade post Brexit – Richmond

Fine Gael Senator and spokesman on EU Affairs, Neale Richmond has welcomed the new EU-Mexico trade deal, stating that it provided a blue print for Irish trade post Brexit.

Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Richmond said: “With the decision of the UK to regrettably leave the EU, Ireland must continue to broaden its trading horizons.

“Mexico is already Ireland’s largest export market in Central America with particular demand for dairy produce. This new deal will eliminate tariffs on 99% of goods, a huge boost for Irish exporters.

“Through our membership of the EU, Ireland is able to be take advantage of recently agreed, favourable trade deals with countries such as Japan, South Korea and Canada as well as the deal with Mexico that upgrades an existing trade deal signed in 2000.

“Over the coming years, the EU will enter into trade talks with countries such as Malaysia, Australia, Vietnam, New Zealand and conclude tricky trade talks with the South American Mercosur region.

“Access to these markets could prove lucrative to Irish exporters while giving importers access to even more competitively priced goods.

“The New Mexican trade deal can be a blueprint for Irish trade post Brexit, allowing our economy to diversify and grow through our continued membership of the EU.”

ENDS