FDI is falling. Infrastructure and SDG financing are under threat.
Swipe to uncover key insights from the World Investment Report 2025.
FDI Trends – The Global Picture
Global FDI dropped by 11% in 2024
From $1.7 trillion to $1.5 trillion (excluding conduit economies).
Why? Policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and financial instability.
The Real Economy Is Hurting
Infrastructure project financing plunged 26%
Critical sectors like energy and renewables saw double-digit declines.
The green transition? At risk.
Regional Shakeups
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Europe: -58% FDI
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North America: +23%
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Africa: +75% (but concentrated in extractives)
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Southeast Asia: Record highs driven by tech and manufacturing
India’s Position
India ranks #15 globally in FDI inflows
$110B+ in greenfield capex
4th globally in announced greenfield projects
A key digital economy hotspot
A Digital Divide Is Emerging
Digital FDI flows grew rapidly—but unevenly
80% of investment went to just 10 countries
LDCs received only 3% of data infrastructure investment
Risk: digital inequality
UNCTAD’s Policy Roadmap
Solutions proposed:
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Digital investment governance
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ESG and sustainability standards
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Global partnerships for digital infrastructure
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Skills development + innovation ecosystems
What It Means for You
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For policymakers: prioritize inclusive investment policies
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For investors: consider ESG + digital gaps in portfolio strategy
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For development actors: support LDC participation in the digital future
Conclusion
UNCTAD’s 2025 Report is a wake-up call
We need productive, inclusive, and responsible investment
Especially in the digital age
Let’s make it count.
