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Follow the Money: 2024’s Biggest FDI Destinations

Updated: Sep 17

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is one of the most critical indicators of a country’s economic attractiveness and growth potential. It reflects investor confidence, business opportunities, and the overall stability of an economy. According to the UNCTAD World Investment Report 2025, global FDI flows in 2024 reveal interesting shifts in the global economic landscape.


Top 10 Global FBI Magnets in 2024:


Top 10 Countries Ranked for 2024 FDI Inflows. Source: UNCTAD WIR 2025. Infographic Created by: Algorithm Research

  1. United States ($279 billion): The U.S. maintained its position as the world’s top FDI destination, attracting more than $279 billion. Its strong consumer market, innovation ecosystem, and robust corporate infrastructure continue to be unmatched.

  2. Singapore ($143 billion): Singapore remains a leading Asian hub for investment, benefiting from its strategic location, stable governance, and business-friendly policies.

  3. Hong Kong SAR, China ($126 billion): Hong Kong continues to be a financial powerhouse, drawing significant capital inflows despite global uncertainties.

  4. China ($116 billion): China’s manufacturing strength, technology development, and large domestic market make it a magnet for global investors.

  5. Luxembourg ($106 billion): Luxembourg stands out as Europe’s investment gateway, leveraging its financial services industry and favorable business climate.


Other notable entries in the top 10 include Canada ($64B), Brazil ($59B), Australia ($53B), Egypt ($47B), and UAE ($46B) — reflecting strong regional diversity in FDI destinations.


Key Takeaways

  • The U.S. leads by a significant margin, with inflows almost double that of second-place Singapore.

  • Asia dominates the leaderboard, with Singapore, Hong Kong, and China all securing top-five spots.

  • Middle East representation is rising, with Egypt and the UAE making it into the global top 10 — highlighting the region’s growing appeal to global investors.


Why This Matters for Global Businesses

FDI inflows are more than just numbers — they indicate where companies are expanding, where jobs are being created, and which markets are becoming global trade hubs. Businesses looking to expand internationally should watch these trends closely, as high FDI destinations often signal strong growth ecosystems and market opportunities.


Source: UNCTAD - WIR 2025

Infographic Created by: Algorithm Research

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