Key Facts
• July 17, 2025: UN ECLAC reported 2024 FDI in Latin America rose 7.1% to $188.96 billion.
• New investments showed stagnation despite overall growth.
• FDI accounted for 13.7% of gross fixed capital formation and 2.8% of GDP in 2024.
• These figures are below the 2010s averages of 16.8% and 3.3%, respectively.
• Brazil received the largest share of FDI at 38%, followed by Mexico at 24%.
• Argentina saw a 44% increase in natural resource investments, while Guyana’s hydrocarbon sector grew by 43%.
• Manufacturing investments increased, while service sector investments declined.
• UN ECLAC highlighted concerns over long-term competitiveness due to insufficient new investments.
• U.S. tariff and trade policy changes are expected to influence medium- to long-term investment decisions.
Summary
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Latin America grew by 7.1% in 2024, reaching $188.96 billion, according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). Despite this growth, new investments remained stagnant, raising concerns about the region’s long-term competitiveness and attractiveness to foreign investors. FDI represented 13.7% of gross fixed capital formation and 2.8% of GDP, both below the 2010s averages. Brazil and Mexico were the largest recipients, accounting for 38% and 24% of total FDI, respectively. Argentina and Guyana saw significant increases in natural resource and hydrocarbon investments. ECLAC urged regional governments to focus on strategies to maintain investor interest, particularly as manufacturing investments rise and service sector investments decline. The report also noted that changes in U.S. trade policies could impact future investment decisions.
