Singapore also ranks among the world’s top jurisdictions for ease of doing business, serving as the preferred gateway for multinational firms expanding across Asia (Photo: Samuel Isaac Chua/EdgeProp Singapore)
Singapore has retained its crown as the world’s most attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) for the fourth consecutive year, outperforming 29 other major economies, including Australia and Switzerland, according to financial services platform BrokerChooser.
The study analysed FDI inflows across the world’s 30 largest economies between 2021 and 2024 using World Bank data. Singapore led the pack with average net FDI inflows equivalent to 29.17% of GDP — more than four times that of Sweden in second place (6.46%) and well ahead of the United Arab Emirates in third (5.16%).
Despite global headwinds such as geopolitical tensions and tightening investment regimes — factors that prompted the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) to downgrade its 2025 FDI outlook from modest growth to a negative trend — Singapore continues to demonstrate exceptional resilience as a magnet for global capital.
Between 2021 and 2024, FDI inflows into Singapore ranged from 26.21% to 33.30% of GDP. Analysts attribute the city-state’s consistent performance to its open economy, political stability, and pro-business tax regime. Singapore also ranks among the world’s top jurisdictions for ease of doing business, serving as the preferred gateway for multinational firms expanding across Asia.
Its strong fundamentals are underpinned by a highly skilled, globally oriented workforce. According to international business administration firm CSC Global, more than 70% of Singapore residents are fluent in two or more languages — a factor that reinforces the country’s appeal as a regional hub for finance, technology, and advanced manufacturing.
Trailing behind Singapore were Sweden and the UAE, followed by Vietnam and Poland, both of which recorded FDI inflows exceeding 4% of GDP.
BrokerChooser noted that FDI is a key barometer of long-term investor confidence, reflecting where multinational corporations are allocating capital for expansion, production, and innovation. Singapore’s continued leadership underscores its strategic importance in the global investment landscape, even as international capital flows show signs of cooling.