UNCTAD: FDI trends in H1 2024

 1. In the first six months of 2024, UNCTAD's preliminary data shows there was a slight (1%) increase in global foreign direct investment (FDI).

2. UNCTAD’s Global Investment Trends Monitor suggests global FDI has remained weak in the first six months of 2024. Excluding European conduit economies that hold investment funds before these reach their final destination, global FDI rose by just 1%.  

3. The value and number of international project finance deals decreased by 30%, keeping aligned with 2023’s downward trend. The value of cross-border mergers and acquisitions also decreased by 5%. High financing costs and inflationary pressures were the main drivers of the weak figures. The marginal 1% increase, at least, halts the downward slide of the past two years and signals a more optimistic outlook on the future of financial conditions.

4. The trends differed across regions and economies, where some were bolstered by a surge in global semiconductor investment.  

Malaysia-Canada Trade Surges 41% Amid Strengthening Economic Ties, as Malaysia Explores New Free Trade Deals to Mitigate Geopolitical Risks

1. Malaysia and Canada are deepening their economic ties, with bilateral trade reaching RM8.05 billion as of August 2024, marking a significant 41 per cent increase year-on-year, according to the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).

2. MITI reported that bilateral trade surged by 25 per cent following Canada’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which also facilitates duty-free access for goods, eliminating tariffs on Canada’s key exports.

3. “This growth was driven by a 68.1 per cent surge in Malaysian exports to Canada and a 16.8 per cent rise in imports from Canada, with key sectors such as clean technology, agriculture, and aerospace fostering closer trade relations,” the ministry said in a statement to Bernama, here.

The Future Of Manufacturing: Technology Trends For 2025 And Beyond

1. The manufacturing sector is undergoing a technological and sustainable revolution. Industry 4.0 technologies like AI, IoT, and digital twins are enhancing efficiency, resource optimization, and eco-friendly practices. 

2. By 2025, software innovations will focus on carbon neutrality, energy efficiency, and cloud solutions, significantly reducing environmental impacts. AI drives smart production, while IoT transforms production lines into intelligent systems. 

3. Decentralized manufacturing and microfactories increase supply chain agility, despite challenges. The electrification of vehicle fleets and the integration of digital ecosystems in cars highlight mobility sector trends. However, manufacturers must address cybersecurity and balance cost-efficiency with innovation to adapt to global challenges

4. Here are FORBES and Forrester’s prediction for manufacturing in 2025 

Bắc Ninh: Vietnam’s Top FDI Location and Emerging Industrial Real Estate Hub

1. In the first nine months of 2024, Bắc Ninh province has established itself as a frontrunner in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) within Vietnam, achieving over US$4.2 billion in investments.

2. This notable influx is largely credited to a robust investment climate characterized by advanced infrastructure and a skilled labor force, which positions Bắc Ninh as a highly appealing destination for foreign investors. 

3. The provincial Department of Planning and Investment reported that foreign investors committed US$1.56 billion to 339 projects, marking an impressive year-on-year increase of 82.2% in total investment and a 28.4% rise in project numbers.

4. Further reinforcing its investment appeal, Bắc Ninh saw 147 FDI projects adjusting their capital expenditures over the same period, leading to an additional allocation of US$2.68 billion. This flexibility demonstrates the province’s proactive approach to fostering business growth and optimizing the operational environment for foreign enterprises.