The Ireland Spain Economic Association was established in 1989 with the main objective of promoting the expansion of trade (visible and invisible) and investment between Ireland and Spain. The level of trade between Ireland and Spain is substantial. Recent trade figues indicate that the volume of Irish exports to Spain and Spanish exports to Ireland is €3 billion and €1billion respectively.

The Association comprises of exporters and importers, wine and spirit merchants, investors and professional practices and those in manufacturing industry. The Association works in close co-operation with the Commercial Office of the Spanish Embassy and also Enterprise Ireland.

The object of the Association is to promote excellent bilateral business relations between Ireland and Spain. To achieve this, we have developed, over the years, a network of business contacts, providing reciprocal opportunities to enhance mutually rewarding relationships.

The Association has been involved in the successful negotiation of a tax treaty between Spain and Ireland and commissioned a report on the balance of payments impact of Spanish students visiting Ireland. Regular activities include business breakfasts, lunches and informative seminars, addressed by key note speakers in the political and business arena, including Presidents Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese, EU Commissioners David Byrne & Charlie McCreevy and Peter Sutherland Chairman BP.plc & Chairman and Managing Director of Goldman Sachs International.

The ISEA presents an annual award to the company which has made the most significant contribution to the development of trade between the two countries. Previous award winners include Atron Electronics Ltd., Golden Vale Plc, Power Supermarkets, Boyne Valley Foods Ltd, Aer Lingus and this year the recipient was Tom McGrath & Associates.