Enterprise Ireland has said that record levels of exports were achieved in 2011 despite the challenging economic outlook.
However, in its end of year statement, the agency also warned that 2012 will be a year of continuing challenges.
Enterprise Ireland estimates that final export figures will exceed pre-recession record levels from 2008.
The agency also said that over €1bn worth of exports this year will be what it describes as "new export sales".
However, despite the strong performance employment in export-driven companies increased only slightly last year.
Enterprise Ireland Chief Executive Frank Ryan said that Irish companies have proved resilient and relentless in their pursuit of new market opportunities.
But he warned that 2012 will continue to present a challenging environment.
