Ireland’s upcoming EU Presidency represents an important opportunity to advance economic competitiveness, according to the results of the latest Cork Chamber Economic Trends survey. Sponsored by PTSB, the Economic Trends survey measured business sentiment and economic outlook among Cork Chamber members at the close of Q4 2025. Members were also asked about their views on Ireland’s EU membership, as well as their top priorities for Ireland’s upcoming six-month Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2026.
The Q4 2025 Economic Trends survey found that:
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Advancing economic competitiveness through the EU Single Market and European trade policy, as well as simplifying EU regulation, is the top priority for Ireland’s EU Presidency.
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The majority of Cork businesses – 78% – believe that EU membership has been beneficial to Irish businesses, with the Single Market cited as the biggest benefit.
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95% of respondents believe that Irish businesses will continue to benefit from EU membership in the medium to long term.
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Confidence in the Irish economy continues to rise, with 80% of respondents expressing confidence in the economy this quarter.
EU Presidency should support Irish business and regional economy
86% of respondents have at least some awareness of Ireland’s upcoming EU Presidency, with the majority of these emphasising the importance of harnessing the EU Presidency to showcase Irish business on the international stage. Utilising the EU Presidency to deliver tangible regional benefits by hosting events in Cork and other locations emerged as another key priority.
Cork Chamber President, Rob Horgan, said, “The importance of EU membership and active participation in EU initiatives for Cork businesses is clear from this quarter’s survey results. With preparations for Ireland’s EU Presidency well underway, it is vital that businesses and communities across the country have an opportunity to engage with this important milestone in a meaningful way.
“EU membership presents a multitude of benefits for the business community, from participation in EU-funded projects, to supporting opportunities for cross-border trade and talent mobility. Recognition of these benefits among Cork businesses is evident, with 95% of respondents agreeing that Irish businesses will continue to benefit from Ireland’s membership of the EU into the future.”
Confidence in the Irish economy at a new high
This quarter, 80% of respondents expressed confidence in the Irish economy, the highest level recorded in 2025.
Auriol Kelly, Business Banking Manager at PTSB, said, “The results of the Economic Trends survey for Q4 2025 show that many Cork businesses finished the year on a high, with strong levels of economic confidence and momentum a welcome sign as 2026 begins. PTSB will continue to support businesses with their goals and ambitions as the new year gets underway.”
Mr Horgan concluded, “It is encouraging to see such a high level of economic confidence among Cork’s business community as the new year begins. 2025 brought unprecedented challenges, particularly at an international level, however the results demonstrate the resilience of businesses and their ability to adapt effectively to a changing economic environment.”
Full results and previous quarterly Economic Trends survey results can be found HERE.