Ahead of Canada Day on July 1st, The Ireland Canada Business Association has released the results of its annual ICBA Member Sentiment Survey. Respondents to the 2025 survey employ almost 30,000 people across Ireland and Canada.
- 89% of respondents now using or planning to integrate Generative AI into business operations
- 84% planning to increase staff numbers, with 74% increasing wages for Irish workforce
- Trade policy uncertainty under Trump administration significantly influences investment decisions for 42% of companies
In this survey, ICBA members including Canada’s leading multinationals have given their views on the following key issues:
- Why Canadian multinationals choose Ireland
- Obstacles to further expansion in Ireland
- Planned investment in their workforce in Ireland
- AI adoption and its impact on productivity and profitability
- Hybrid working & return to the office.
- Impact of US protectionist trade policy
The Irish-Canadian business community is rapidly embracing artificial intelligence while navigating increased trade policy uncertainty, according to the Ireland Canada Business Association’s latest member sentiment survey released ahead of Canada Day 2025 (July 1st).
The survey reveals a striking transformation in how businesses operate, with 89% of respondents either already using Generative AI or planning to integrate it within the next year. Companies are deploying AI in a range of ways, including document drafting, sales operations, cybersecurity services, meeting minutes, and educational technology platforms.
Despite global uncertainties, respondents remain strongly committed to Ireland, with 84% planning to increase their workforce and 74% intending to raise wages for their Irish employees. Survey respondents collectively employ 30,000 people across Ireland and Canada.
- AI Revolution Drives Productivity Gains
89% of respondents are either already using Generative AI or are planning to integrate it within the next year. The widespread adoption of AI is delivering tangible benefits, with 79% of companies reporting increased productivity and efficiency as a result. 10% of companies report that AI has changed the nature of roles within their organisations, though overall workforce numbers have remained stable or increased.
Ireland’s regulatory environment for AI innovation receives strong support, with 63% of companies believing it is supportive of responsible AI development.
- Trump Trade Policies Create Investment Uncertainty
The survey reveals significant concern about U.S. trade policy under the Trump administration, with almost half of companies expecting trade policy to become “much more protectionist” over the next 2-3 years. 42% report that trade policy uncertainty significantly influences their long-term planning and investment decisions.
While 63% of companies report minimal direct impact on their supply chains so far, many are taking proactive measures including diversifying sourcing away from the U.S., adjusting pricing strategies, and increasing local production in target markets.
- Traditional Challenges Persist
Despite positive expansion plans, familiar obstacles continue to hamper growth. The top risk factors identified by respondents include:
- Cost of operating the business (79%)
- Labour costs (52%)
- Recruiting staff (47%)
- Housing supply (21%)
When asked about the most significant drivers of business costs, regulatory compliance was identified by over 40% of respondents.
- A return to the office for employees
The evolution of workplace practices continues, with 45% of companies requiring staff to spend more of their time in the office since last year.
Investment priorities for 2025 focus on increasing pay and conditions (40%), wellbeing initiatives (50%), and upskilling programs (65%).
- Ireland Remains Gateway to Europe
When asked why Canadian companies choose Ireland, the top factors remain:
- Access to the European market (21%)
- English speaking environment (21%)
- Cultural fit (31%)
- Competitive tax regime (16%)
- Availability of talent (21%)
Dr. Deirdre Giblin, Chair of the Ireland Canada Business Association, commented:
“Canadian companies are doubling down on Ireland — not just as a European base, but as a launchpad for innovation. Our latest survey shows nearly 90% are adopting generative AI, while more than 80% plan to grow their workforce here. That’s a strong vote of confidence in Ireland’s business climate, especially at a time when global trade policies are shifting fast.
But we can’t afford to stand still. Rising costs, staff shortages, and a tight housing market remain real barriers. As we mark Canada Day, we’re calling on Irish policymakers to act — and make sure Ireland stays competitive, connected, and open for business in a world that’s changing by the day.”
Dr. Deirdre Giblin, Chair of the ICBA, is available for further comment
For interviews & further info: Patrick Haughey, ICBA Media Relations 087 2394054
About the ICBA:
The ICBA is the voice of the Ireland Canada Business community. Our membership is composed of chief executives and senior management of Canada’s leading enterprises who have located their European operations in Ireland. Since 1978 we have been connecting executives and organisations in Canada and Ireland for the purpose of bilateral investment, trade and entrepreneurship. As a membership organisation, our members make our mission possible. They span over 20 business sectors and directly and indirectly support more than 20,000 jobs across the country and hundreds of small businesses. Our partnerships with the Canadian Embassy and the Ireland Canada Chambers inform our work.