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Business leaders from both sides of the border have joined forces with companies from Pennsylvania for a major trade mission designed to forge new partnerships and boost economic links with Newry Chamber of Commerce playing a key role in facilitating the cross-Atlantic collaboration.
The USA/Cross Border Trade Mission officially launched at the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) in Dundalk, bringing together around 12 US companies with a similar number of cross-border businesses for several days of networking, knowledge-sharing and business matchmaking. The initiative is being facilitated by AMTCE alongside partners including Newry Chamber of Commerce, Southern Regional College, Invest NI, Dundalk Chamber of Commerce and the Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh.
The timing of the mission coincides with the NFL match at Croke Park between Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings, adding extra significance to the Pennsylvania connection. The US delegation is being led by Jim Lamb, President of The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh, Amanda Stewart, CEO of High Performance Building Alliance, and Jenna Cramer, President & CEO of Green Building Alliance.
Michael Savage, CEO, Newry Chamber highlighted Newry's particular connection to Pittsburgh and the opportunities this presents for local businesses. "Newry has a strong affiliation with Pittsburgh and we are committed to growing that relationship further in the coming months and years by encouraging US companies in key growth sectors to partner our companies and maximise the unique opportunities Newry's strategic location can provide through Dual Market Access to the UK and EU and lower trade tariffs."
Participants represent a diverse range of sectors including technology, software, manufacturing, engineering, life sciences, healthcare, agri-food and food tech, with the agenda featuring expert briefings, site visits and networking opportunities all aimed at fast-tracking commercial growth and deepening transatlantic trade links.
Mr Savage also emphasised the long-standing collaborative approach between the border chambers and the strategic advantages the region offers. "Newry and Dundalk Chambers have always worked closely together to encourage cross border trade and promote this region as a cross-border hinterland with a bright economic future, capable of attracting inward investment and strengthening collaboration either side of the border and across the Atlantic."
The mission has attracted support from multiple partners, with Invest NI, LMETB-Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence, Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor and both chambers providing sponsorship. Martin O'Brien, Chief Executive of LMETB, described the initiative's broader significance, stating: "The Trade Mission is about more than business – it is about building lasting relationships. By bringing companies from the island of Ireland together with our long-standing partners in Pennsylvania, we are opening doors for collaboration in advanced manufacturing, technology, life sciences, and beyond."
Gerard Smith, Director of AMTCE, noted how the mission reflects the centre's vision "to act as a bridge between industry, education, and international partners. The opportunities being explored this week have the potential to deliver real economic benefits across the island of Ireland."
The trade mission represents a significant step in strengthening economic ties between the cross-border region and Pennsylvania, with Newry Chamber's involvement underlining the area's commitment to leveraging its unique position to attract international investment and create new business opportunities for local companies seeking to expand their global reach.
