The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has published a non-prescriptive policy framework to help governments identify gaps and reforms needed to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) that supports digital transformation. The framework covers four areas: governance and policy co-ordination, domestic and international regulation, financial and technical support, and investment information and facilitation services. The framework calls for alignment between investment and digital strategies, proportionate market access and investment screening rules, effective competition and intellectual property protections, interoperable cross-border data regimes and responsible business conduct. It also recommends targeting incentives at defined market failures, expanding communications infrastructure and digital skills, strengthening links between multinational and domestic firms, and simplifying investment procedures. Greenfield FDI in digital sectors rose from 15% of global greenfield investment in 2016-2020 to 26% in 2021-2025, although investment remains concentrated, with the 20 largest multinational enterprises accounting for 81% of greenfield FDI in information and communications technology manufacturing during 2021-2025.
2026-09-03OECD
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development publishes framework to mobilise foreign investment for digital transformation
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has issued a framework to help governments mobilise FDI for digital transformation. It focuses on policy co-ordination, proportionate regulation, targeted financial and technical support, and measures to reduce information and administrative barriers. Greenfield FDI in digital sectors reached 26% of global greenfield investment in 2021-2025.