There have been a 'tangible improvements' in the cost of doing business in Ireland, according to a new report from the National Competitiveness Council.
Read the report here
However the report, which looked at cost competitiveness in labour, property, utilities and business services, said that some costs continue to increase or remain relatively high.
The NCC says that although Ireland had a significant loss of competitiveness over the last decade, since January 2008 Ireland has been regaining some of that lost cost competitiveness.
It says that although prices have become 'moderated', property, broadband and legal fees remains costly.
Locally-trading sectors, which are not open to international competition, remain high. The report gives the example of waste water services, which it says in increased by 18.8% in 2009.
Exchange rates have a significant impact on the relative costs of doing business in Ireland. As exchange rates are outside of Ireland's control, the report says it is important to concentrate on cost factors that are influenced by Government policy.
In a statement, the IDA welcomed the report saying it is further evidence that the cost of doing business in Ireland is falling.
