STATEHOUSE (April 1, 2025) – Legislation authored by State Rep. Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) to strengthen economic ties and support trade between Indiana and Ireland recently passed the Indiana Senate.
House Enrolled Act 1489 would create an Indiana-Ireland trade commission aimed at advancing bilateral trade and investment between the state and Ireland.
“Indiana has long had strong cultural and economic ties to Ireland and establishing an Indiana-Ireland trade commission would strengthen that foundation,” O’Brien said. “This commission could open doors for new business opportunities, encourage investment and bolster our state’s position on the global stage. I’m proud to author this bill and see it pass the legislature this session.”
In 2023, Indiana imported more than $20 billion worth of goods from Ireland, making the country Indiana’s largest importing partner. In Indiana there are 52 Irish-based companies located in 24 counties.
O’Brien said the commission would be selected by the governor and Statehouse leadership. It would include 13 members from the General Assembly, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, a higher education institution and communities representing Irish Americans.
House Enrolled Act 1489 passed the Senate and was supported by former Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern and Mark Daly, a member of the Ireland Senate.
