Councillors Urge Local Businesses In Wicklow To Stand Strong In The Face Of US Tariffs

Wicklow businesses are urged to take action and hold their nerve despite the onset on US Tariffs

With the new EU-US tariff agreement now in effect since August 1st this year the Local Enterprise Office is urging businesses in the Garden county to take action.

The new deal imposes a 15% tariff on most EU exports to the US, while there is still a lack of clarity on the impact that this will have on businesses and specific sectors.

However, the Local Enterprise Office encourages any businesses that feel they may be affected to reach out to them.

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman stated:

“Local businesses face numerous challenges, and the threat of US tariffs has been one of them. With the announcement of the new EU-US tariff agreement, I would like to remind local businesses throughout County Wicklow that the Local Enterprise Office based in Rathnew offers a range of supports, including access to customs consultant clinics.”

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan is equally firm:

“The Local Enterprise Office is here to assist businesses, and I encourage all business owners affected by the tariffs to make contact with them and avail of their support, as they conduct export development programs to explore new markets.”

Vibeke Delahunt, Head of Enterprise for the Local Enterprise Office Wicklow added:

“This new agreement provides businesses with a starting point and some stability in their decision-making. There is still a lot to be worked out about how this will impact certain sectors but planning can begin.

We encourage any business that believes it may be affected, even if they are unsure, to contact us for guidance. We offer a range of supports, including access to export consultants and customs training, which can help businesses understand and enhance their skills where necessary.

So, we would say to businesses come and talk to us and we can help you map out a plan for the next 6 months and beyond to help you minimise the impact of these new tariffs and explore potential new markets.”

LEO Wicklow is launching a new Export Development Programme in September.

Businesses interested in developing new markets are encouraged to register their interest here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wicklow/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/Expression-of-Interest-Export-Development-Programme-Autumn-2025.html

Local Enterprise Offices across the country will be working with clients to navigate the new customs agreement and pricing strategies. This will include assessing new markets, assisting with tariff classification, and planning to reduce costs where possible.

Since their inception eleven years ago, the Local Enterprise Offices have helped create over 80,000 jobs across the country.

The LEOs work with thousands of client companies in a diverse range of sectors, offering mentoring, training, expert advice, and financial supports to small businesses.