Costs, Skills and AI: what a new global report means for Tipperary businesses
Rising costs, finding skilled staff and keeping pace with technology remain key concerns for businesses, according to the latest Chamber Pulse 2026 report from the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and its World Chambers Federation.
Drawing on responses from 352 chambers across 113 countries and territories, the report shows that businesses remain positive about growth despite an uncertain international environment.
The key findings include:
Confidence is improving: Chambers in around six out of ten countries expect business activity to increase over the next 12 months.
Cost pressures continue: Chambers in nearly nine out of ten countries report rising prices.
Skills shortages remain a challenge: Seven in ten chambers identify a shortage of skilled workers as a leading labour market concern.
AI adoption is growing: The share of chambers reporting widespread AI use across industries has risen from 12% in 2024 to 32% in 2026.
Businesses are adapting to trade uncertainty: Finding alternative suppliers and expanding into new export markets are common responses.
For Tipperary businesses, these findings highlight the value of investing in staff, exploring practical uses of AI and reviewing supply arrangements.
County Tipperary Chamber supports members through training and development with County Tipperary Chamber Skillnet, business events and advocacy on the issues affecting employers across the county.
The survey reflects the views of participating chambers, collected in May–June 2026. It is an international overview rather than an Irish business survey.
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