Why Irish Exporters Should Consider African and Middle Eastern Opportunities

Expanding to new markets as an Irish exporter? Consider Africa and the Middle East. What if these regions allowed you to increase your export earnings, potentially within the next few years?

Change is in the air. Irish businesses already have a foothold in Europe and the United States, and successful exporters observe and analyze markets outside of the realm of the "known," as they are likely to outperform the competition. Consider the vast potential that Africa and the Middle East offer.

Statistics are Encouraging

Irish food and drink exports to the Middle East and North Africa reached €546.9 million (about $624 million) in 2024, a remarkable feat, albeit with a catch. The growth for this region is predicted by 56 percent of Irish exporters for 2025, which signifies anticipated untapped potential. 

Ireland as a whole reached a landmark record of €17 billion and a 5 percent increase year-on-year in food and drink exports for 2024. There is additional potential to target the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which have emerged as Irish product consumers, as evidenced by recent trade missions focused on infant formula, beef, and lamb.

Why These Markets Matter Right Now? 

Consider this: By 2030, the construction market for infrastructure in the Middle East and Africa will rise to $266.71 billion, an increase of $62.69 billion within five years.  

Saudi Arabia has projected $11.2 billion for 2025 toward basic transport and infrastructure. Over the following three years, South Africa is expected to invest $52.4 billion in the construction of roads, bridges, dams, and ports. Currently, Egypt is in the process of a $4 billion bridge construction project over the Tiran Strait.  

These projects are not proposals; they are all currently under construction. They each require the collaboration of global suppliers, contractors, and partners.  

  

What Makes These Regions Special?

It's critical to comprehend why Africa and the Middle East are becoming some of the most promising places for global companies before deciding where to operate. They are perfect markets for Irish exporters because of their quick development, robust consumer demand, and government-backed initiatives.

Growing Consumer Demand: These regions have consumers with remarkable buying potential. People in Africa and the Middle East are willing to pay for a quality product. They are also in search of sustainably sourced products, giving Irish products a competitive advantage in quality, safety, and traceability.  

  

Infrastructure Boom: South Africa's Renewable Energy program aims to procure 3,200 MW of wind power and 1,800 MW of solar power. These large-scale construction projects increase the demand for various technologically advanced construction services.

Government Expenditures: Regionally, budgetary expenditures expand with the Gulf and North African states having unprecedented increases. The billions of government expenditures earmarked for building better countries align with increased tenders and opportunities for exporters. Therefore, as opportunities shift, exporters also adjust.

Economic Diversification: The Gulf states have also begun oil diversification. The shift now includes investments in renewables, technology, and logistics. This shift brings opportunities across multiple industries for Irish companies.

Understanding Tender Offers  

As you may expect, there are multiple tenders to be filled. Whether it be healthcare projects in Morocco, water construction in Egypt, solar power initiatives in South Africa, or port development in Dubai, tenders are there.  

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is influencing the landscape of trade in Africa. This increased ease of trade is expected to spur economic activity and growth, along with increased investment and the number of foreign companies operating across several African states.

What Sectors have Opportunities?  

Development is picking up speed in important industries throughout Africa and the Middle East, which is exactly in line with Ireland's advantages. These industries, which include digital innovation and renewable energy, are opening up a variety of export and collaboration options for Irish companies looking to grow internationally:

  

Renewable Energies: All African states are engaged in renewables, building wind and solar initiatives for the emerging demand for green energies.

Health Systems: In the region, more and more hospitals and healthcare centres are being built, thus the need for more equipment, supplies, and services. 

Modern Transport: New amenities in the regions include roads, highways, and airports.

Water and Sanitation: These basic and essential services have very little in terms of amenities; however, the demand is persistent.

Digital Technologies: The construction of smart cities, along with other digital infrastructure initiatives.

Food Systems: Population growth directly links to the demand for quality food staples and products.

The Primary Obstacle and How to Overcome It  

To be candid, these markets may seem distant and alien. You might be concerned about understanding the rules and finding the right contacts. The terms of payment may be different, and the range of payment is different for each country.  

  

Why Irish Companies Have An Upper Hand  

The perception of Irish companies and products around the world is positive. Irish dairy, beef, and prepared foods are of high quality and are well known and appreciated in the Middle Eastern countries, especially in Saudi Arabia and the UAE markets.  

But it is not all about food. Ireland also performs well in the provision of quality services, technology, and engineering. The excellence of Irish products is well recognized worldwide.  

Your Next Step

You are now aware of the figures, which means you appreciate the size of the opportunity—it is time for you to do something about it. 

At Tenders on Time, we simplify the process for Irish exporters looking to access opportunities in the Middle East and Africa. We assess numerous opportunities every day and identify relevant contracts for your company. We send the important details straight to you. 

Our service eliminates the need to sift through numerous and often unwieldy websites, miss deadlines, and question the adequacy of your search.

Every day you wait, your competitors are taking your opportunities. Start your journey to Africa and the Middle East with Tenders On Time.