The first half of this year was the worst on record for exporters, according to Irish Exporters' Association chief executive John Whelan.
Mr Whelan said the impact could damage the ability of many companies to benefit from an expected upturn in the global economy next year.
He said exports to the UK had fallen by 48%, with indigenous companies unable to handle the fall in export prices resulting from a stronger euro.
According to the IEA's mid-year review released today, exports to the US held up best in the downturn and now account for 20% of total exports, slightly ahead of the UK.
Mr Whelan said exporters needed urgent assistance. He called for higher staffing levels at Enterprise Ireland offices overseas.
He also urged the Government to resist the temptation to increase direct or indirect taxation in the budget.
The exporters also want State agencies to re-evaluate their strategy for increasing sales in the euro zone and UK.
