Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has outlined five asks of the UK and Irish government, following President Trump’s announcements on US tariffs last night.
Addressing 300 business leaders at NI Chamber’s economic conference ‘Momentum’ in Ballymena this morning, Dr Caoimhe Archibald highlighted the uncertainty and apprehension around the world at the tariffs being imposed by the Trump Administration.
Discussing her asks, she explained: "First, to keep the north’s unique circumstances in mind in trade negotiations and in terms of any counter-measures.
“Second, to act in concert, and to minimise divergence between Britain and the EU. Third, to provide a properly resourced advice service for businesses so that they can understand how tariffs affect them.
“Fourth, to improve existing trading initiatives such as HMRC’s duty reimbursement and waiver schemes. Finally, to bring forward an economic package that protects our international competitiveness.”
Suzanne Wylie, Chief Executive, NI Chamber
The Minister continued: “My Department will closely monitor the impact of US tariffs and any counter-measures. On Monday morning I will meet with businesses and trade unions to assess the unfolding situation, and the next steps. Our task is to maintain the positive economic momentum that has built up over the last few years.”
Suzanne Wylie, Chief Executive, NI Chamber also addressed delegates saying:
“While we must all take time to unpick the detail and digest the implications, there is no doubt that these tariffs will have ramifications for businesses in Northern Ireland.
“It’s a complex picture and at this point, much is still unclear, particularly when it comes to potential retaliation.
“What we do know is that now is a time for calm heads and careful, constructive assessment.
“In anticipation of this escalation of US tariffs, NI Chamber has been actively engaging with policymakers in Westminster, Brussels, Stormont and Dublin since January. In all of that, our aim has, and will continue to be, to ensure that Northern Ireland and its unique circumstances are adequately considered as both the UK and EU prepare to respond.
“As these are so complex, we have also been calling on the London government to stand up a team of experts to support our businesses through this challenge.”
‘Momentum’ is NI Chamber’s flagship economic conference, delivered in partnership with headline sponsor Ulster Bank and supporting sponsors BT, ESB and Ulster University.
READ MORE: Tech for Good - Belfast-based ESO employees contribute to AI-powered healthcare innovation
Nigel Walsh, Director of Commercial Banking, Ulster Bank added: “Ulster Bank is a proud sponsor of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Momentum Conference. Ulster Bank is a purpose-led bank that champions potential, helping people, families and businesses to thrive. We support our customers at every stage of their lives and we are keen to build deeper relationships across the Northern Ireland business community.
"As part of the NatWest Group, we are one of the largest business and commercial banks in the UK. We leverage the whole Group’s expertise for our customers, providing product solutions and expertise they need at the right time – helping manage day-to-day business activity, supporting them through both the good and challenging times, and working with them to help them plan for the future. We would like to congratulate the Chamber on ‘Momentum’ bringing members, industry leaders and subject matter experts together to share and learn from each other in succeeding in our dynamic marketplace and beyond.”
Read the latest edition, Spring 2025, of Sync NI here completely free of charge.
Subscribe to the Sync NI newsletter for all the latest technology news, jobs and upcoming events in Northern Ireland.
Visit Sync NI online for the latest technology news in Northern Ireland.
