12th February 2026
The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, today announced the publication of the Annual Employment Survey (AES) 2025 and the Annual Business Survey of Economic Impact (ABSEI) 2024, with results demonstrating strong, broad-based national growth across three of Ireland’s most strategically significant sectors: medical devices, financial services and chemicals.
Sector-by-sector highlights
Medical devices – strong regional growth and steady expansion
Employment in the medical devices sector grew by 3.3% in 2025, reaching 47,112 jobs. Growth was driven by both Irish and foreign-owned firms.
Minister Burke said:
“Ireland’s medical devices industry continues to be one of our strongest performers, marked by sustained job creation and exceptional regional growth. Its contribution to jobs, exports and innovation strengthens Ireland’s position as a global leader in medical technology.”
Financial services – continued employment growth and international competitiveness
Employment in the financial services sector grew 2.7% in 2025 to 43,282 jobs, with significant expansion in Dublin.
Minister Burke said:
“The financial services sector continues to deliver high‑value employment and strong economic results. Its expanding export footprint and rising value added show that Ireland’s financial services ecosystem is increasingly globally competitive.”
Chemicals – highest employment growth among the three sectors
The chemicals sector recorded the strongest employment growth of all sectors, rising 4.4% in 2025 to reach 47,771 jobs.
Minister Burke said:
“The chemicals sector is delivering exceptional results and remains one of Ireland’s most strategically significant industries. Its performance strengthens Ireland’s manufacturing base and reinforces our global leadership in pharmaceutical production.”
National outlook
The combined performance of these three high‑value sectors demonstrates the effectiveness of Ireland’s enterprise strategy and the resilience of its industrial base.
ENDS
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