Opportunity Ireland Purpose – Promoting investor and corporate awareness of efforts to attract foreign direct investment in Ireland.

 

Note – The USPTO published its acceptance of our declaration of use under Section 8 of the trademark Opportunity Ireland and has renewed our registration 4,612,645 of the mark. Dated June 5, 2024. The USPTO has therefore determined that Opportunity Ireland has been in use in commerce for the past ten years. Our next submission of a declaration of use and trademark renewal is due at the earliest Sept. 30, 2033.

 

– Opportunity Ireland can refer you to Irish companies in many different industries/markets that might be seeking international partners.

 

– Our extensive Reports (at no cost) under the News/Events section of this website (under title – A Case of Mismanagement of Irish Government Funds) provide an objective insight into the workings of the Irish Government and Ireland’s oversight system based upon a real-life example (case study) of a potential FDI transaction where a prominent US life sciences company had committed to setting up its European operations in Ireland.

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These Reports are based on a case prior to the launch of Opportunity Ireland. Opportunity Ireland was launched to create a formal entity to handle a portfolio of future FDI projects and to engage in a more structured way with the Irish Government, based upon the experience of the founder (Bio attached – or to coin a phrase, my Biome, a cross between a bio and a resume as it’s difficult depending on your experience to incorporate it all into a bio) in bringing FDI projects to the Irish Government in the life sciences and alternative energy areas.

 

These life sciences and alternative energy projects were not part of the Opportunity Ireland initiative, but since the Reports are based on one of these projects and can be applied to any future FDI project, and were written after the launch, the founder has kept them under the Opportunity Ireland banner to highlight the pitfalls of bringing FDI through Irish Government agencies.

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed herein regarding negative action on the part of Irish Government are those of the founder of Opportunity Ireland and are not necessarily those of anyone else involved in the initiative. While Opportunity Ireland has continued since 2012 by its founder, negative action on the part of the Irish Government towards the initiative has prevented it from becoming a more established entity and structure to develop some of the leads (FDI) identified during the launch, although its founder, prior to the launch of Opportunity Ireland, has demonstrated competency in sourcing and successfully engaging excellent FDI opportunities through the formation of business groups (MOU’s), precursors to the formation of business contracts. You can lead a horse to water…

 

Opportunity Ireland does not provide (perhaps in future) services such as management consulting or any other type of business service outside of bringing two parties together in the context of FDI. That is, Opportunity Ireland only acts as online middleman in FDI transactions, hence its ability to provide no-fee service (see further below). We are not responsible for undertaking due diligence of any companies that partner in any way with each other via Opportunity Ireland, or liable for any negative consequences of such partnerships.

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Comments on articles, predominantly directed to the Irish Times and CC’d to certain US media, toward the end (just before FDI definition section), provide additional context on Opportunity Ireland’s purpose.

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White House Correspondence: Foreign Policy & Investment Relations

Following outreach by Opportunity Ireland’s founder in a personal capacity, he received an email letter from the White House. Details and implications are explored. Note: This correspondence has been identified as a Tier 3 White House response. Within the four-tier reply framework (with Tier 4 representing the most personalized level of engagement), Tier 3 messages are semi-automated but reviewed for relevance, often addressing current policy themes and public concerns.

SelectUSA Networking

While Opportunity Ireland believes in SelectUSA’s face-to-face networking approach, our proprietary platform will provide a direct online connection to potential US FDI partners. We feel this will add value to SelectUSA by acting as a prescreening process, allowing Irish companies to target potential FDI partners and identify qualified leads before engaging in more comprehensive discussions and incurring the associated costs, including travel and accommodation, legal and consultancy expenses, market research, networking, and business development.

Casual discussions can begin once an Irish company has identified some of these qualified leads. Once both parties feel confident about a near-future engagement, they can avail of SelectUSA services directly. These world-class services do not require the involvement of any middleman, be it a private consultancy firm or an Irish government agency. This approach results in a more streamlined and efficient engagement process by utilizing world-class SelectUSA professionals and eliminating any Irish Government bureaucracy and politics from a company’s business expansion strategy.

The Opportunity Ireland platform may be designed as a subscriber-based model to ensure it is always up to date with qualified leads. It will also be able to categorize data in various ways as a value-added service to Irish companies, including categorizing by partnerships already established through the platform. This will provide important insights for other companies seeking US FDI partnerships.

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In the meantime, we’re availing of Thomas’s dedicated hub for connecting buyers with certified American manufacturers, making it easier than ever for Irish companies to find, evaluate, and connect with U.S.-based suppliers who can meet their specific needs. But these supplier relationships are the foundation for the identification and development of business relationships/partnerships ultimately leading to some form of equity ownership/partnership by the US company in your Irish company (Opportunity Ireland’s FDIP concept – see further below).

It’s not rocket science. You don’t need any type of complicated financial or business engagement via financial/consulting firms posing as chambers of commerce and the like to find and engage with a potential US partner company. It’s a numbers game, and Thomasnet’s platform is built to win it.

The founder of Opportunity Ireland followed a similar process as that outlined below (and as detailed in this Opportunity Ireland subsection) and succeeded in identifying and engaging prominent investors, one widely recognized as the “pioneer” of the small company biotech industry in the U.S., to bring their companies and IP to Europe. Despite strong interest and initial traction, the effort was ultimately undermined by policy decisions and lack of support from the Irish government.

You don’t need to utilize the Irish Government or any middlemen in Ireland, private for-profit companies/firms with a ‘shop front’ that looks like a not-for-profit business support organization or chamber, who put themselves in front of you and gain so many benefits at your expense. And your direct out-of-pocket expenses will be significantly higher.

In our third summary document (before writing our comprehensive reports), see first Report, p. 8, link ‘Part 3’, second page, I refer to Enterprise Ireland (EI) not wanting to deal with third parties which is how they viewed one of our investor groups. However, we were not a third party in the sense above as we had engaged the US parent company to form a private equity firm on a 49/51 basis and were trying to bring the parent company (and its multiple other companies) to Ireland and therefore were not a shop front. Opportunity Ireland is preaching what it practiced. It’s interesting because EI has no problem being a ‘sponsor’ to many of these shop fronts or third parties as per the EI logo on their websites, but doesn’t like to deal with ‘third parties’ when they’re not part of the partnership or getting something out of it themselves:

Why Wait for Permission?

Irish businesses deserve direct access to global opportunities—without gatekeepers, filters, or delays.

The Thomasnet Summit in Chicago offers exactly that: a chance to meet U.S. manufacturers, buyers, and potential partners face-to-face or virtually. No need to align with government trade missions or wait for someone else’s schedule. Just you, your business, and the decision-makers who matter.

✈️ Travel Smart, Connect Direct

Aer Lingus and American Airlines flights to the U.S. can be surprisingly affordable. Take a few days off, jump on a flight to Chicago, or attend virtually from your office in Ireland. Either way, you’re in control.

Whether you’re extending a business trip or simply visiting the U.S. on holiday, events like the Thomasnet Summit offer a direct path to meaningful engagement. Meet potential partners, build friendships, and explore opportunities that go far beyond the summit itself. You might find yourself invited to dinner, introduced to families, or shown parts of the country you never expected to see. The possibilities are real—and they’re yours to pursue.

Unlike government-sponsored trade missions, your proprietary and non-proprietary business information remains confidential. We’ve seen firsthand how centralized access through government channels can lead to sensitive data being shared—sometimes even with competitors. That’s not just a risk; it’s a reality.

🔗 Real Connections, Real Growth

Whether you’re seeking new clients, strategic partners, or even investment opportunities, the Thomasnet Summit is a direct line to U.S. industry leaders who can help scale your business. These aren’t just handshakes—they’re potential long-term collaborations.

At Opportunity Ireland, we believe in empowering businesses to forge their own path. The Thomasnet Summit is your chance to do just that—without interference, without compromise.

🔒 Protect Your Business. Own Your Access.

Under no circumstances should your competitive edge be diluted by third-party Irish Government oversight. This is your opportunity to engage directly, build relationships, and grow—on your terms.

Using supplier networks like ThomasNet and events like the Women in Manufacturing (WiM) Summit can be a smart, low-friction way to build relationships that could evolve into strategic partnerships.

Why This Approach Works for Irish Companies Expanding to the US

• Shared Supply Chains = Shared Interests Starting with supplier relationships gives you a natural entry point. If you and a potential US partner rely on similar materials, components, or logistics, you’re already speaking the same operational language. That builds trust faster.
• ThomasNet as a Discovery Engine It’s not just a directory—it’s a matchmaking tool. You can filter by certifications, capabilities, and geographic location to find suppliers who might also be open to collaboration or investment discussions.
• WiM Summit (or other future summits/events) = High-Value Networking The WiM Summit 2025 runs from October 12–14 in Chicago. It’s a powerhouse event with over 2,500 attendees expected, including executives, innovators, and decision-makers across manufacturing sectors. You’ll find:
  • Breakout sessions on strategic leadership, innovation, and ESG
  • Exhibitor expos and networking lounges
  • Keynotes from major players like Boeing, Molson Coors, and HelloFresh
• Equity Proviso Potential If you’re grooming a US partner for equity involvement in Ireland, this kind of relationship-building is ideal. You’re not pitching a cold investment—you’re co-developing value through shared operations first.

Suggested Path Forward

1. Use ThomasNet to identify US suppliers aligned with your Irish operations.
2. Attend WiM Summit 2025 to meet decision-makers and explore synergies.
3. Start with operational collaboration—joint sourcing, co-manufacturing, or distribution.
4. Build toward strategic partnership with equity discussions once mutual value is clear.

This isn’t just a backdoor—it’s a front-row seat to the industrial ecosystem.

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Therefore, tying it all together with Select USA:

🌍 Important Context

• We’re promoting Irish companies via our Opportunity Ireland initiative on Failte32.org
• We’re guiding you to use Thomasnet to identify potential U.S. supplier partners
• We’re considering how events like the Thomas WiM Summit and SelectUSA can support deeper collaboration
• Our goal is to help Irish and U.S. companies evolve from exploratory meetings into long-term co-partnerships

🔗 Why This Dual-Event Strategy Works

1. Thomasnet + WiM Summit = Tactical Matchmaking

• Thomasnet helps Irish firms identify and vet U.S. suppliers based on capabilities, certifications, and location.
• The Women in Manufacturing (WiM) Summit, happening October 12–14, 2025 in Chicago, offers:
  • Networking with U.S. manufacturers
  • Exposure to innovation and leadership in industrial sectors
  • A collaborative environment ideal for first contact and exploratory discussions

2. SelectUSA = Strategic Expansion & Investment Planning

• Once an Irish company and U.S. supplier begin to align, SelectUSA events offer:
  • Access to economic development organizations (EDOs) and government incentives
  • Guidance on cross-border investment, site selection, and legal frameworks
  • Opportunities to co-present their partnership vision to stakeholders and investors

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🤝 Opportunity Ireland’s 4-Step Process — Making Irish–U.S. Collaboration Easy

Stage	Action	Event
Discovery	Irish company identifies U.S. supplier via Thomasnet	Online
Exploration	Meet at WiM Summit to discuss capabilities, culture, and goals	Oct 2025
Alignment	Develop partnership roadmap, roles, and shared value	Post-Summit
Expansion	Attend SelectUSA together to explore incentives, investment, and scaling	Spring 2026

🧭 Bonus Tip

Both parties should co-brand their presence at SelectUSA — e.g., joint booth, shared pitch deck, or a panel proposal. This signals maturity and commitment, and it often attracts interest from EDOs and investors.

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FACTORY TOUR VIDEOS

Opportunity Ireland will start you off at the Discovery stage with some examples of Thomas’s Factory Tour videos, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at potential suppliers and manufacturers—whether you’re interested in injection molding, robotic systems, flight parts, or any of the other 78,000 categories available on Thomas.

In about three minutes, you can see a facility, learn about its processes and equipment, and get a sense of the team that works there. Check out some of Thomas’s recent favorites:

• Virtual Factory Tour N.J. McCutchen, Inc. – Specializes in metal fabrication, finishing, and precision CNC machining services for steel materials. It serves the production, power generation, industrial machinery, paper manufacturing, and aerospace industries. 

• Virtual Factory Tour Kaps-All Packaging Systems, Inc. – Manufactures standard and custom liquid fillers, bottle cleaners or unscramblers, cappers, conveyors, foil or induction cap sealers, and labelers. It serves the pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, chemical, food, and beverage industries.

• Virtual Factory Tour STIWA US Inc. – Manufactures custom parts, from single prototypes to hundreds of thousands of parts. The company’s machining capabilities include 5-axis milling, mill-turn center, flat surface grinding, wire EDM, and CMM, and it works with a wide range of materials.

• Virtual Factory Tour Rely Contract Manufacturing – Provides contract manufacturing and packaging services. It serves various industries, including medical, electrical, heavy equipment, automotive, food and beverage, print and packaging, and consumer products.

• Virtual Factory Tour NewAge Industries, Inc. – Manufactures flexible thermoplastic, thermoset tubing and hose, reinforced and unreinforced, stainless steel overbraid and jacketed hose assemblies, and fabricated tubing and hose. The company also manufactures custom extrusions, coiled tubing, and thermal tube bonding for pressure or vacuum. 

• Virtual Factory Tour Naugatuck Glass LLC – Custom manufacturer of glass components for avionics, cosmetics, aircraft instrument lighting wedges, aircraft instrument covers, automotive, and marine industries. Its products are suitable for optical filters, industrial gauges, picture frames, information display devices, and instrumentation or decorative applications. 

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Next, simply reach out—and you’re on your way to the exciting next step: Exploration!

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Below is a draft outreach message/pitch to potential US partners that you can tailor depending on whether you’re contacting a potential supplier, strategic partner, or someone you meet at an event like the WiM Summit:

Subject: Exploring Strategic Collaboration Between Ireland and the US

Hi [Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I represent [Your Company], an Irish-based firm specializing in [brief description of your operations—e.g., precision manufacturing, sustainable packaging, etc.].

As we expand our footprint into the US market, we’re actively seeking strategic partners who share our commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and long-term growth. I came across your company via [ThomasNet / WiM Summit / industry event], and I was impressed by your capabilities in [specific area—e.g., CNC machining, logistics optimization, etc.].

We believe there’s strong potential for collaboration—starting with supply chain alignment and possibly evolving into a deeper strategic relationship, including equity participation in our Irish operations. Our goal is to build a mutually beneficial partnership that leverages shared resources, market access, and technical expertise.

Would you be open to a brief conversation to explore synergies? I’ll be attending the upcoming WiM Summit in October and would be delighted to connect in person if you’re planning to be there.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Warm regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Title] [Your Company Name] [Contact Info] [LinkedIn or Website]

Irish Company Pitch – In-Person at WiM Summit

“Hi, I’m [Your Name], I’m with [Your Company], an Irish firm specializing in [brief description—e.g., advanced manufacturing, sustainable packaging, etc.]. We’re expanding into the US and looking to build strategic partnerships with companies that share our focus on innovation and operational excellence.

I came across your company through [ThomasNet / this summit / industry circles], and I think there could be real synergy—especially around supply chain alignment or co-manufacturing.

Longer term, we’re open to deeper collaboration, even equity involvement in our Irish operations if there’s mutual value. Ireland offers a strong launchpad into the EU market, with great talent and the potential for serious future Irish government policy support for indigenous industry.

Would you be open to a quick chat later today or sometime after the summit to explore how we might work together?”

Tips for tailoring on the fly:

• If they’re a supplier: Emphasize joint sourcing or distribution.
• If they’re an executive: Highlight strategic growth and EU access.
• If they’re an investor: Mention equity participation and long-term ROI.
• If they’re attending a breakout session: Suggest meeting after the session to continue the conversation.

And here’s a condensed 30-second elevator pitch and a one-pager-style version you can use digitally or in print when representing your Irish company at events like the WiM (or other) Summit:

30-Second Elevator Pitch (Irish Company Perspective)

(Opportunity Ireland and Failte 32, in the context of job seeking, since their founding, have coached those who’ve engaged with us on the importance of a 30-second elevator pitch.)

“Hi, I’m [Your Name] from [Your Company], an Irish firm specializing in [your sector]. We’re expanding into the US and looking for strategic partners—especially those with shared supply chain interests.

Ireland offers a strong launchpad into the EU, with the potential for serious future Irish government policy support for indigenous industry and a skilled workforce. We’re open to operational collaboration and even equity involvement if there’s mutual value.

I’d love to explore how our capabilities might align—are you open to a quick chat?”

One-Pager Style Summary (for phone/tablet or print)

About Us [Your Company] is an Irish-based firm specializing in [brief description—e.g., advanced manufacturing, sustainable packaging, etc.]. We’re expanding into the US and actively seeking strategic partners.

What We’re Looking For

• Supply chain alignment (joint sourcing, co-manufacturing, distribution)
• Operational collaboration with US firms
• Long-term strategic partnerships, including equity participation

Why Ireland?

• Gateway to the EU market
• Ireland fosters robust indigenous B2B support
• Strong local enterprise collaboration
• Ireland’s indigenous firms thrive through mutual support
• Skilled, innovation-driven workforce
• Proven track record in global manufacturing and tech

Let’s Connect We’re attending WiM Summit 2025 and would love to meet. Let’s explore how our strengths can complement yours.

Contact Info [Your Name] [Your Title] [Your Company Name] [Email] | [Phone] | [LinkedIn] | [Website]

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Manufacturing will face a defining moment in 2026. The future belongs to those who adapt business models, embrace new technologies, and rethink sourcing to outpace traditional competitors.

Data shows 28% growth in U.S. domestic sourcing and 22% growth in international sourcing, highlighting a move toward diversified supply chains and sourcing closer to home.

This report dives into what is reshaping our industry, revealing changing trends that are driving business forward like:The transformative rise of AIA new focus on operational agilityEvolving sourcing strategies

Download the report – Navigate the Future of Manufacturing With Confidence

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🟢 Opportunity Ireland: A Smarter Path to Growth

🌍 Vision

To position Ireland as the preferred gateway for U.S. companies seeking access to the European market — not through traditional FDI alone, but through strategic partnerships with indigenous Irish firms.

🔁 The Model: Reverse Expansion

Instead of Irish companies expanding abroad, Opportunity Ireland invites U.S. firms to:

• Partner with Irish companies to co-develop products, services, or market strategies.
• Establish joint operations in Ireland, leveraging local talent, infrastructure, and EU access.
• Drive profits and innovation into Ireland, rather than exporting them out.
• Ireland’s enterprise agencies, Enterprise Ireland (EI) and IDA Ireland, could operate more efficiently and productively by adopting Opportunity Ireland’s model. Opportunity Ireland’s model is far superior to the current Enterprise Ireland model in particular. However, we do hope they will emulate it in time and perhaps they already are on their website? Nonetheless, we require that any use of our trademark, FDIP™, be subject to our prior approval. And while we advise against using these agencies, we do understand that some companies will avail of Irish government agencies when they feel they need their hand held.

💡 Why It Works

Traditional EI Model	Opportunity Ireland Model
Irish firms expand abroad	Foreign firms expand into Ireland
High risk, high cost	Lower risk, shared investment
Value often created offshore	Value retained and reinvested in Ireland
Focus on exports	Focus on co-location and co-creation

🧭 Strategic Benefits

• Boosts Irish SMEs: Gives them scale, credibility, and access to global networks.
• Strengthens Ireland’s FDI pipeline: Attracts investment that’s rooted in local partnerships.
• Enhances economic sovereignty: Keeps IP, profits, and decision-making within Ireland.
• Aligns with national priorities: Supports regional development, innovation, and sustainability.
• While Opportunity Ireland advises against using Irish government enterprise agencies, it nevertheless serves as a next-generation ‘independent’ complement that could reshape Ireland’s global competitiveness.

🔄 Why It Could Be More Efficient

• Shared Infrastructure: Instead of duplicating efforts abroad, Irish companies and foreign partners could co-invest in Irish operations, reducing overhead and logistical complexity.
• Faster Market Access: U.S. firms gain instant access to the EU via Irish partners, while Irish companies scale without the burden of overseas expansion.

📈 Why It Could Be More Productive

• Local Value Retention: Profits, IP, and talent development stay in Ireland, boosting GDP and innovation.
• SME Empowerment: Indigenous firms grow through strategic alliances, not just exports — creating stronger, more resilient businesses.
• FDI with Depth: Instead of transactional investment, Ireland attracts embedded partnerships that are more likely to endure and evolve.

🧩 Strategic Fit with Current Plans

Both EI and IDA’s 2025–2029 strategies emphasize:

• Sustainable growth
• Innovation and digitalisation
• Regional development
• Resilience through collaboration

Opportunity Ireland’s model aligns beautifully with these goals.

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Bridging the Gap in Ireland’s Enterprise Ecosystem

Ireland’s enterprise landscape is shaped by two key agencies: Enterprise Ireland (EI) and IDA Ireland. EI empowers Irish-owned companies to scale—in large part by developing exports—and expand into global markets.

IDA Ireland, meanwhile, focuses on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), bringing multinational companies to Ireland and strengthening the country’s global economic ties.

Yet a crucial link has long been missing: a dedicated effort to connect indigenous Irish companies with U.S. firms through strategic partnerships within Ireland. That’s where Opportunity Ireland comes in.

We fill this gap by helping Irish businesses build meaningful collaborations with American companies—right here at home. These partnerships unlock new growth opportunities, strengthen Ireland’s domestic industrial base, and reduce over-reliance on foreign multinationals.

While occasional cross-border collaborations exist, they’ve never been treated as a strategic priority. Opportunity Ireland changes that. We believe this missing link has held back the full potential of Ireland’s indigenous enterprise sector—and we’re here to change the narrative.

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FDIP™ Whitepaper: A Smarter Model for Transatlantic Growth Opportunity Ireland proudly introduces FDIP™ (Foreign Direct Investment Partnerships), a groundbreaking strategy that empowers Irish and U.S. companies to co-launch operations in Ireland. Our whitepaper outlines the FDIP™ framework, our proprietary 4-step process, and the strategic rationale behind this innovative approach. Learn how we’re redefining cross-border collaboration—built on partnership, not dependency.

👉 [Read the full whitepaper here] 

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As founder of Opportunity Ireland I was mulling over the idea of ever using middlemen such as EI, the IDA or Ibec with regards to in future supporting the licensing of an acoustics idea of mine to an Irish company, but I could not for the life of me (and I’ve been around the block once or twice) see a benefit to me or anyone else for that matter working with any of them, particularly a benefit that would justify any of them getting a piece of my idea, directly or on a quid pro quo basis, and I want a process that is as easy, efficient and successful as possible. 

I’ve already been reaching out directly to some Irish companies in Ireland who are in the business should my idea turn out to be commerciable, and they have indicated interest once it’s patented. The process will be that easy, less potential complications, less opportunities for fraud…

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IRELANDs SUCCESSFUL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ZONES

Below is an article (first link below) in the Wall Street Journal re. China. As founder of Opportunity Ireland, I personally made a comment (see below the second link) regarding Ireland’s successful economic zones and that Xi Jinping brought this model back to China. At the end of my comment, I refer to a link to/article on the Embassy’s website. When I went to make the same comment on another WSJ article a week later (second link below), I noticed that the Embassy link/article at end of comment had been disabled. Fortunately, previously I had copied the Embassy article – see Embassy website article PDF link below the comment (or copy and paste version below PDF link – note that tabs in both versions link to the Chinese Embassy). Below that again is an updated comment I made on another WSJ article.

China Launches Live-Fire Drills, Missiles Around Taiwan After Pelosi Visit – WSJ

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China’s Computer Chips Are Down – WSJ

Comment I made in above two WSJ articles:

Xi Jinping, as VP, used to visit to my home country Ireland, more specifically the Limerick/Shannon region, where he was respectfully entertained and given guidance on our very successful economic development zones, which model he then brought back to China to build China’s special economic zones, Shanghai Pudong New Area, Tianjin Binhai New Area and other development zones. While Ireland is an innocent player in all this, as an Irish man I’m ashamed to think that such a person, who we showed respect for, all along had the nefarious motive of using such success to strengthen China’s economic power with the ultimate goal of overthrowing Hong Kong and Taiwan and God only knows where else in the future. I understand the need for general trade activity between countries, but policies and experience on a macroeconomic level that give one country an advantage over another should be carefully guarded from communist regimes. Lesson learned? Vice President Xi Jinping Visits Ireland’s Shannon Development (mfa.gov.cn)

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Embassy website article PDF
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Home   Embassy Info   Spokesperson’s Remarks   Sino-Irish Relations   Visa&Consular   Economy&Trade    Education   Science&Tech   About China

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Vice President Xi Jinping Visits Ireland’s Shannon Development   2012-02-20 On the afternoon of February 18, 2012, local time, Vice President Xi Jinping, who had just arrived in Ireland, visited Shannon Development Zone in the west of Ireland in the company of Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Eamon Gilmore. Vice President Xi first heard the briefing made by CEO of Shannon Development Vincent Cunnane on the history of the development zone, its business philosophy, future development goals, its role in Ireland’s economic development and its relations with China and then had interactive discussions on the attraction of foreign investment, preferential policies, its cooperation with China and other interesting topics. Vice President Xi said that Shannon Development is one of the oldest and the most successful economic development zones in the world. For decades, it not only made significant contributions to the economic development of Ireland, but also provided a useful reference for the economic development in many other countries in the world. China has learned a lot of useful experience from Shannon Development to build China’s special economic zones, Shanghai Pudong New Area, Tianjin Binhai New Area and other development zones. Many Chinese delegations came to visit here to learn experience and they were deeply impressed. Shannon Development has played a helpful role in broadening their horizons, exploring new ideas, and promoting economic development. Ireland and China have complementary economic advantages. The two sides should further strengthen mutual learning, deepen mutually-beneficial cooperation, and make unremitting efforts for the long-term, healthy and stable development of bilateral relations. CEO Vincent Cunnane and other executives of Shannon Development thanked Vice President Xi for coming to visit the development zone directly from the airport after arriving in Ireland. It shows the great importance attached by the Chinese leaders to strengthening economic and trade relations with Ireland. They said that Shannon Development is willing to further strengthen cooperation with China in aviation, transportation, financial services and other areas so as to develop and prosper together with China for the benefit of the people. On the Night, Xi Jinping attended the welcome banquet hosted by Gilmore.

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America’s Industrial Base Isn’t Ready for War With China – WSJ

Comment on above article:

I realize I’ve brought up this point before (2-3 weeks ago) about China’s close relationship with Ireland which enabled it to bring Ireland’s very successful economic development zones concept back to China to accelerate its economic growth, no doubt a nefarious motive on the part of China to subsequently conquer Taiwan and others. Re. two previous articles in the WSJ, I referred in my comments to a link/article on the Embassy’s website. What was interesting was that the link/article was removed from the Embassy’s website after my first comment. I mentioned this in another WSJ comment. I had however copied the article before it was removed. I had experience to do this as the Irish Government does it all the time to cover up its fraud (my Reports on Failte 32 detail this). Therefore, it’s a habit now that I copy or screen shot certain references I make. I therefore uploaded the article/PDF to my Failte 32 U.S. website under the Opportunity Ireland section (towards end). I then noticed that the uploaded PDF was given first billing on Google when you searched under words like China, Shannon, economic zones. It was even before the Guardian, although it has since been pushed way down the charts : ) Maybe the Embassy wants it way out of sight. Anyhow, I agree with this article that America needs a coordinated strategic defense-industrial base for our military to counter China’s economic development zones infrastructure, which no doubt have a dual industry/military purpose.

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Note – Re. Embassy article above (copy and paste or PDF version), all links within it were also removed by the Chinese Embassy shortly after my comments were made.

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OPPORTUNITY IRELAND DIRECT COMMENTS TO CERTAIN US AND IRISH MEDIA, GOVERNMENTS AND OTHERS.

(The comments below are direct and unapologetic. If sharp opinions aren’t your thing, you might prefer to skip this section)

• Direct comment Nov. 2024.
  • Opportunity Ireland recently gave its opinion (Nov. 2024) on an Irish Times article that seemed to show that the Irish Government continues to make and repeat bad decisions on behalf of the Irish taxpayer. We single out this comment/article because we have related it to the experience of the founder of Opportunity Ireland bringing FDI into Ireland and how questionable Irish Government funding programs continue under a different mask.

• Direct comments Jan. (original comment sent to Irish Times in Jan.) and Feb. 2025.
  • Note – I have not included my original comment/email to the Irish Times, Forsa and the Irish Government in Jan. referenced in the first sentence of my subsequent comment to US media (Feb 3) as it is not necessary and inherent in my comment to US media.
  • And in my email to the Irish Times dated Feb 12, when I say, “I’m sure the DP won’t entertain such shenanigans.”, I’m being both sarcastic and hopeful at the same time. I refer you to p. 80 of my first Report (link at end of this section before FDI definition section) where at the time I had faith in the DPP’s objectiveness but questioned the process by which it receives cases. However, the Irish Times article of Feb 25 (Irish-Times-comments.pdf) gives me the impression that even the DPP’s objectiveness is now in question.

• Direct comments Feb./Mar. 2025.
  • In the direct comment I make to the Irish Times on Feb 27, I state in part, “My advice to US investors – if you turn a blind eye to corruption (government), invest in Ireland. If you practice ethical business, stay the hell away!” I am of course referring to US investors who choose to bring FDI to Ireland via the Irish Government as opposed to via FDIPs, a concept/strategy being developed by Opportunity Ireland (see ‘FDIPs’ further above).

• The following article (April 18, 2025) speaks for itself; hence, no further comment is necessary:
  • Ireland has spent almost €600m on tribunals and investigations – The Irish Times
  • Opportunity Ireland had, in fact, generally made this point back in 2015 (ten years ago!) on page 62 of our first report on the mismanagement of Irish government funds, when we stated:
  • “But I don’t necessarily blame the friend of a solicitor above, in that I believe unfortunately the effects of corruption spread out from its core, the Irish Government, out into the next layer, the lawyers, and finally out into the private sector. Irish law firms seem to have little choice but to act as a firewall that protects the Irish Government from prosecution on corruption charges by avoiding taking on potential corruption cases such as mine. The many Irish Tribunals, at significant cost to the Irish people, in place of the institution and conducting of legal proceedings, strongly supports this hypothesis. I’m certainly not saying that Irish law firms and those in the Irish private sector are corrupt, or any more corrupt than any other nation, but unfortunately, they have had to learn how to conduct business (Government-private sector transactions) in this type of environment.”
  • Report-A-Case-of-Mismanagement-of-Irish-Government-Funds.pdf

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FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT (FDI) is an investment in the form of a controlling ownership in a business in one country by an entity based in another country.^[1] It is thus distinguished from a foreign portfolio investment by a notion of direct control.

The origin of the investment does not impact the definition, as an FDI: the investment may be made either “inorganically” by buying a company in the target country or “organically” by expanding the operations of an existing business in that country….

Definitions[edit]

Broadly, foreign direct investment includes “emergers and acquisitions, building new facilities, reinvesting profits earned from overseas operations, and intra company loans”. In a narrow sense, foreign direct investment refers just to building new facility, and a lasting management interest (10 percent or more of voting stock) in an enterprise operating in an economy other than that of the investor.^[2] FDI is the sum of equity capital, long-term capital, and short-term capital as shown in the balance of payments. FDI usually involves participation in management, joint-venture, transfer of technology and expertise. Stock of FDI is the net (i.e., outward FDI minus inward FDI) cumulative FDI for any given period. Direct investment excludes investment through purchase of shares.^[3]

FDI, a subset of international factor movements, is characterized by controlling ownership of a business enterprise in one country by an entity based in another country. Foreign direct investment is distinguished from foreign portfolio investment, a passive investment in the securities of another country such as public stocks and bonds, by the element of “control”.^[1] According to the Financial Times, “Standard definitions of control use the internationally agreed 10 percent threshold of voting shares, but this is a grey area as often a smaller block of shares will give control in widely held companies. Moreover, control of technology, management, even crucial inputs can confer de facto control.”^[1]

Types of FDI[edit]

1. Horizontal FDI arises when a firm duplicates its home country-based activities at the same value chain stage in a host country through FDI.^[6]
2. Platform FDI Foreign direct investment from a source country into a destination country for the purpose of exporting to a third country.
3. Vertical FDI takes place when a firm through FDI moves upstream or downstream in different value chains i.e., when firms perform value-adding activities stage by stage in a vertical fashion in a host country.^[6]

Methods[edit]

The foreign direct investor may acquire voting power of an enterprise in an economy through any of the following methods:

• by incorporating a wholly owned subsidiary or company anywhere
• by acquiring shares in an associated enterprise
• through a merger or an acquisition of an unrelated enterprise
• participating in an equity joint venture with another investor or enterprise^[7]

Forms of FDI incentives[edit]

Foreign direct investment incentives may take the following forms:^[8]

• Low corporate tax and individual income tax rates
• tax holidays
• other types of tax concessions
• preferential tariffs
• special economic zones
• EPZ – Export Processing Zones
• Bonded warehouses
• Maquiladoras
• investment financial subsidies^[9]
• free land or land subsidies
• relocation & expatriation
• infrastructure subsidies
• R&D support
• Energy
• derogation from regulations (usually for very large projects)

Governmental Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) use various marketing strategies inspired by the private sector to try and attract inward FDI, including diaspora marketing.

• by excluding the internal investment to get a profited downstream.

Importance and barriers to FDI[edit]

The rapid growth of world population since 1950 has occurred mostly in developing countries.^{[citation needed]} This growth has been matched by more rapid increases in gross domestic product, and thus income per capita has increased in most countries around the world since 1950.^[10]

An increase in FDI may be associated with improved economic growth due to the influx of capital and increased tax revenues for the host country. Besides, the trade regime of the host country is named as an important factor for the investor’s decision-making. Host countries often try to channel FDI investment into new infrastructure and other projects to boost development. Greater competition from new companies can lead to productivity gains and greater efficiency in the host country and it has been suggested that the application of a foreign entity’s policies to a domestic subsidiary may improve corporate governance standards. Furthermore, foreign investment can result in the transfer of soft skills through training and job creation, the availability of more advanced technology for the domestic market and access to research and development resources.^[11] The local population may benefit from the employment opportunities created by new businesses.^[12] In many instances, the investing company is simply transferring its older production capacity and machines, which might still be appealing to the host country because of technological lags or under-development, in order to avoid competition against its own products by the host country/company.

Developing world[edit]

A 2010 meta-analysis of the effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) on local firms in developing and transition countries suggests that foreign investment robustly increases local productivity growth. ^[13] The Commitment to Development Index ranks the “development-friendliness” of rich country investment policies.