Ireland is one of the most attractive locations for investment in information and communications technology. Over 300 overseas ICT companies develop, market and manufacture a wide range of leading edge products in Ireland. 7 of the worlds Top 10 ICT companies have a substantial base in Ireland.

Overseas companies, including IBM, Intel, Hewlett Packard, Dell and Microsoft employ 45,000 in Ireland. In 2003 exports in this sector exceeded €21 billion, representing 26% of all exports.

Many of the worlds leading ICT companies have Irish operations that have expanded to take advantage of Ireland's unique set of competitive advantages. Functions such as shared services, supply chain management, technical support, software development and R&D are increasingly included in the range of operations carried out by ICT companies in Ireland.