Summary

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), global foreign direct investment (FDI) flows amounted to USD 1.6 trillion in 2025, up 14% compared to 2024. A significant share of this increase was driven by flows routed through major financial centres (via holding and treasury structures), without the establishment of real assets in the transit jurisdictions. FDI inflows into developed economies rose by 43% to USD 728 billion, while flows into developing economies declined by 2% to USD 877 billion. More than 70% of least developed countries experienced a decrease in investment inflows. Project-based investment activity also continued to weaken: in 2025, the number of new sustainable development projects fell by 16%, while the main investment targets were data centres and semiconductor manufacturing. Experts note that investment policy is currently most affected by geopolitical instability, fragmentation of global supply chains, and the concentration of capital in high-tech industries. These factors increase uncertainty, make investors more selective, and reduce long-term project investment in infrastructure and green projects. UNCTAD recommends shifting towards targeted investment promotion measures aimed at reducing regulatory uncertainty, strengthening value chains, and supporting the launch of new investment projects.