New Working Group Established To Tackle US Tariff Implications

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced the formation of a working group tasked with assessing the potential impact of recently introduced US tariffs and any subsequent countermeasures on Northern Ireland's economy. The group will collaborate closely with officials from the Department for the Economy, Invest NI, and InterTradeIreland to furnish the Minister with crucial market intelligence.

This intelligence will encompass emerging issues, relevant case studies, sector-specific data, analyses of broader economic consequences, and recommendations for necessary interventions. The working group comprises representatives from key industry bodies, bringing a wealth of experience and insights from across Northern Ireland's main sectors involved in trade with the United States.

The appointed members are:

• Stuart Anderson, NI Chamber

• Nichola Mallon, Logistics UK

• Stephen Kelly, Manufacturing NI

• Claire Sullivan, CBI Minister Archibald voiced her concerns regarding the newly implemented tariffs, stating: "The introduction of tariffs by the US Administration has created much uncertainty and concern for businesses, workers and their families. Indeed the potential impact on exports from our main sectors is considerable."

She outlined the group's primary objective: "The purpose of this group is to provide regular updates on the developing trade situation and its impact on the north’s businesses and to shape our response and the interventions required at different levels of government."

The Minister also highlighted her ongoing engagement with various stakeholders. "In addition to the engagement I have had with the British and Irish governments, this week I met with a wide range of business, industry and union representatives on the US tariffs. As feedback is received from the working group and the situation evolves, this engagement will continue."

This initiative underscores the Northern Ireland Executive's commitment to proactively address the challenges posed by the evolving global trade landscape and to safeguard the interests of local businesses and workers.