Economic uncertainty created by the protectionist trade policies of Donald Trump and other world leaders has been named the top risk to Irish businesses in 2025 by Aon Ireland.
The potential introduction of tariffs and other barriers to trade was the leading risk ahead of climate change, geopolitical instability, artificial intelligence, and regulatory changes.
“While Irish businesses have navigated challenges well in recent years, a heightened state of volatility is set to become the new normal this year”, said Peter Brady, head of risk capital at Aon Ireland.
“In this increasingly complex environment, defined by major shifts across the areas of trade, technology, weather and workforce, leaders should expect the unexpected.”
The Central Bank has said the risks created by growing protectionism could have a significant impact on Ireland’s economic model as a small and open international economy, reliant on international trade.
IMF chief Kristalina Georgievahas also warned that the global economy is at risk of an economic slowdown, due …