County Tipperary Chamber Expresses Concern Over US Tariffs and Calls for Strategic Response

Competitiveness and Market Access Must Be Prioritised

County Tipperary Chamber, the voice of business in Tipperary, has expressed concern following the US administration’s announcement of a 20% tariff on all EU imports, recognising the potential impact on regional sectors and stressing the importance of a calm, coordinated response that supports local businesses.

“This development is of serious concern to many of our members across key sectors including manufacturing, agri-food, and internationally traded services,” said County Tipperary Chamber President Sarah Fogarty . “Our focus must now shift to assessing the implications, protecting employment, and ensuring practical supports are in place for affected businesses.”

“We must make full use of our position within the Single Market, continue to leverage the EU’s global trade agreements, and pursue new trade partnerships to maintain and grow international market access. A united EU response will be essential, and Ireland must continue to play an active role in ensuring the needs of Irish businesses particularly SMEs in regions like ours are heard and addressed.”

County Tipperary Chamber CEO Michelle Aylward added:

“The exposure across businesses will differ, but the need for action is universal. Government must ensure that our state agencies, local enterprise offices, and trade supports are fully resourced to guide and assist businesses during this period of uncertainty.

Financial supports for vulnerable sectors will be critical to help manage cash flow, adapt operations, and retain staff while seeking new market opportunities. We know Tipperary businesses are resilient, but they need the right environment and tools to respond quickly and effectively.”

The Chamber also reiterated the importance of long-term competitiveness, calling for:

·        The delivery of overdue regional infrastructure projects

·        Continued investment in education and workforce development

·        Measures to maintain Ireland’s attractiveness as a place to live, work and invest

“Tariffs do not lead to progress. What we need now is unity, dialogue, and diplomacy anchored in a shared European strategy. Our business community here in Tipperary is strong, and with the right supports, we can rise to this challenge and continue to thrive,” Aylward concluded.