Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has travelled to America on a mission to promote Northern Ireland as a leading location for innovation, investment, and international trade, as well as a key tourism destination.

The Minister is visiting Boston and New York, where she will meet with senior executives from key US investors, business leaders, and industry networks, alongside officials from Invest NI. At a Tourism Ireland event, she will also engage with leading US travel industry representatives to promote Northern Ireland as a "must see" destination. The United States is a significant source of inward investment, with almost 300 US-owned businesses employing nearly 32,000 people here. Dr Archibald noted that this investment is a two-way street, with local companies like Almac, Mallaghan Engineering, and Randox also growing their presence in North America.

Speaking from Boston, the Minister said: "Strengthening these relationships is central to delivering my Economic Plan and this week I will reinforce the north's position as an attractive, competitive, and strategic location for US businesses, while also supporting our companies to succeed internationally."

Kieran Donoghue, CEO of Invest NI, highlighted the vital role US companies play in Northern Ireland's economy, investing in sectors such as financial services, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. He noted that leading investors like Citi, Seagate, and Aflac continue to reinvest, demonstrating confidence in the local workforce and the dual market access proposition.

The Minister will deliver keynote speeches in both cities, focusing on the economic benefits of dual market access and Northern Ireland's skilled workforce.