Trump Urges Ireland to Purchase US LNG to Reduce Trade Deficit

President Donald Trump has called on Ireland to address a trade imbalance with the United States by increasing its purchases of American liquefied natural gas (LNG). The discussion took place during the annual St. Patrick’s Day meeting between Trump and Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the US Capitol Building on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Trade Deficit Concerns

Trump highlighted a “tremendous deficit” in trade between the two countries, stating, “We have a tremendous deficit, by the way. I looked at the numbers.” He expressed confidence in Ireland’s business acumen, saying, “You guys are much better business people than our past politicians.”

The President suggested that increasing LNG purchases would significantly reduce the deficit, stating, “So we want to sell a little to you, and the deficit will come down, down, down, and everybody’s going to be happy.” He added, “You gotta buy a lot of our stuff.”

Irish Investment in the US

Trump acknowledged the significant investment made by Irish companies in the US, noting over six billion dollars had been invested. He then reiterated his hope for a deal to sell American LNG to Ireland, believing it would further reduce the trade deficit.

St. Patrick’s Day Tradition

The meeting between the US President and the Irish Taoiseach is a long-standing tradition, occurring annually as part of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Taoiseach Martin presented President Trump with a bowl of shamrocks, a tradition dating back to the 1950s .

Broader Discussions

Even as the trade deficit was a key topic, discussions likewise covered other areas of mutual interest. According to , Iran, NATO, and the situation in the Middle East were also addressed during the meeting. Taoiseach Martin used the opportunity to advocate for “dialogue, negotiation and de-escalation” in the Middle East and argued against tariffs, emphasizing the need for free and open trade for Ireland’s economic success.

The US President and the Taoiseach also discussed Iran and fighting in the Middle East .