UNCTAD-OECD Report on G20 Investment Measures (31 ^st report)

When the Global Financial Crisis broke out, in 2008 and early 2009, G20 members committed to refrain from introducing new barriers to investment or trade. They complemented this commitment by a request that WTO, OECD and UNCTAD monitor and report publicly on their new trade and investment policy measures. This 31 ^st monitoring report on investment measures by G20 members, jointly prepared by the UNCTAD and OECD Secretariats, documents measures that G20 Governments have taken in relation to their pledge. It covers investment and investment-related measures adopted between 16October 2023 and 15October 2024.

The report notes that global FDI flows declined in 2023, continuing their downward trajectory and remaining below pre-pandemic levels for the second year in a row. In the first quarter of 2024, while global FDI surged by 78% from low levels recorded in the fourth quarter of 2023, they remained comparable to the level recorded in the first quarter of 2023.

The challenging geopolitical and economic environment continues to negatively impact international investment and FDI in particular. The policy adjustments made by G20 countries in response to these challenges highlight an increased focus on managing security risks associated with certain foreign investments.

Sustained pressures on FDI widen the investment gap in developing countries and makes advancing towards the SDGs ever more challenging. Fostering a conducive investment environment in these countries will be critical to attract more and higher-quality investment and to strengthen their participation in global value chains, enhance economic resilience, and foster inclusive growth.

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