Attracting Investment in the Digital Ecosystem to Advance the SDGs

The session explores how FDI in the digital economy can be leveraged to advance national development priorities and the SDGs.

While most discussions on the digital ecosystem focus on technology development, the required governance and ethical principles, understanding where the investment goes in the digital world is often understudied. The 2025 World Investment Report focused on international investment in the digital economy. It analysed key trends, drivers and determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) in this rapidly evolving sector. Drawing on global policy developments, including the experiences of 15 developing countries that have successfully attracted FDI in the digital economy, the report presented specific recommendations to promote and leverage international investment in digital sectors. These recommendations aim to enhance the digital economy’s contribution to national development objectives, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

To support dissemination and implementation of the report’s findings, the Investment Policy Reviews Section of UNCTAD is organizing a two-hour workshop. Following an introduction which will present key statistics on investment in the digital economy, the session will address critical policy areas – ranging from FDI-specific strategies to broader legal provisions that influence foreign investors’ decisions to enter and operate in digital markets.

Shaping the foundations.
This part will cover the strategic and policy underpinnings of investment in the digital economy, including national digital strategies and critical regulatory areas such as data governance, intellectual property and competition policy.

Fostering Impact.
This second part of the session will address how to mitigate potential negative impacts of FDI – particularly in areas like taxation, incentives and the environment – while enhancing its positive effects, such as the development of skills and linkages.

Stimulating Investment.
The final part will focus on enabling policies that attract investment, including openness to FDI, investment facilitation and promotion strategies.