There will be further substantial investment by Japan in Irish companies, according to the Minister of State for Labour, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Mr Tom Kitt.

Mr Kitt was speaking after concluding the second phase of his economic mission to Japan where he held meetings with five Japanese companies. He said he was impressed by the IDA's approach in Japan and its "focus on developing links with small and medium-sized Japanese companies expanding into Europe".

No specifics were given on the size of the investments Mr Kitt expects to come from Japanese companies.