Foreign Direct Investment Inflows Research Articles

Determinants of foreign direct investment in Malaysia

By using annual time series data spanning 1995 to 2021, this study examines the key factors that influence foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows to Malaysia. This study employed the conventional determinants of FDI and incorporated an under-studied corruption variable to capture the political impact on FDI inflows to Malaysia. The ARDL bounds test results identified short- and long-run positive relationships between FDI inflows and two tested variables: market size and education. A positive long-run relationship was also found between inflation rates and FDI inflows. By contrast, infrastructure facilities were found to be negatively related to FDI inflows in the long run. More importantly, the results ascertained that higher corruption levels hamper FDI inflows to Malaysia in the long term. Moreover, the Granger causality test revealed that market size, inflation rate, and infrastructure facilities are critical causal factors that explain the fluctuations in FDI inflows to Malaysia. In light of the results obtained, some policy recommendations are highlighted to help enhance the attractiveness of FDI, thereby stimulating economic growth in Malaysia.

FDI REFORMS AND INDUSTRIAL WAGE AFTER THE LAUNCH OF “MAKE IN INDIA”: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE

India gradually started liberalizing its industrial, trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) related policies since the launch of economic reforms in 1991. The empirical evidence on the impact of FDI spillovers on industrial wages in India has generated mixed results so far. The current study analysed the impact of FDI inflows on the real wage rates of the workers using data from seven major industrial sectors between 2001–2002 to 2019–2020. The two-stage least squares (2SLS) estimation results suggest that FDI inflows positively influenced both the skilled and unskilled wage rates. Moreover, FDI inflows in productive sectors led to a greater rise in wages vis-à-vis the unproductive sectors. In addition, key government policy initiatives like the Make-in-India (MII) scheme and FDI reforms were found to be effectively enhancing wage rates, though the impact on skilled wage rates was greater. The paper stressed the need to create a holistic environment that can attract FDI in both upstream and downstream segments, facilitating India’s deeper participation in global value chains (GVCs) and IPNs on the one hand and realisation of associated dynamic benefits on the other.

Inward foreign direct investment and innovation: Which comes first?

This study re-examines the direction of causality between inward foreign direct investment (FDI) and innovation (residents and non-residents) by considering balanced panel data of 56 countries (2000-2020). The vector auto-regressive (VAR) Granger non-causality tests show a direction from FDI inflows to innovation (non-residents), where FDI comes first (FDI-led innovation), while there is bidirectional causality between innovation by non-residents and residents, in general. For developed economies, FDI causes innovation by non-residents, but is caused by residents' innovation. There is no causation between FDI and innovation in either developing economies or economies in transition. These findings were further complemented by impulse response functions and various decomposition tests. Some policy relevance is highlighted.

Factors Influencing Foreign Direct Investment (Fdi) Inflows from West Asia/Middle East to Malaysia Between 2018 And 2023: A Qualitative Analysis from a Political Economic Perspective

Factors Influencing Foreign Direct Investment (Fdi) Inflows from West Asia/Middle East to Malaysia Between 2018 And 2023: A Qualitative Analysis from a Political Economic Perspective

Exploring the pathways accounting: Foreign direct investment as a catalyst for idiosyncratic risk, sectoral GDP, economic activity, and economic growth

This study examines the interaction between foreign direct investment (FDI), idiosyncratic risk, sectoral GDP, economic activity, and economic growth in ASEAN countries using structural equation modeling (SEM) performed using AMOS software. The analysis uses data from the ASEAN Statistics Database 2023 to distinguish the significant direct and indirect impacts of FDI on idiosyncratic risks, sectoral GDP, economic activity and aggregate economic growth can. ASEAN, which includes ten Southeast Asian countries, has experienced rapid economic growth and increasing integration in recent decades, making it an interesting area to study these relationships. The study covers a comprehensive period to capture trends and differences among ASEAN member states. Applying SEM with AMOS allows a detailed examination of complex relationships between important economic variables. The results show a clear link between FDI inflows, idiosyncratic risks, industry GDP performance, economic activity, and overall economic growth. More specifically, FDI inflows have a notable direct influence on idiosyncratic risks, which then impact GDP growth by sector, and the level of economic activity and ultimately contribute to economic growth trends. economy more broadly in ASEAN countries. These findings highlight the importance of understanding and effectively managing the dynamics between FDI and various economic indicators to promote sustainable economic development across ASEAN. This information can inform policymakers, investors, and stakeholders in developing targeted strategies and policies that maximize the benefits of FDI while minimizing related risks to promote strong and inclusive economic growth in the region. This study highlights the multifaceted relationships in the ASEAN economic context, emphasizing the need for strategic interventions and policy frameworks to exploit the potential of foreign investment directed at ASEAN, to the Sustainable Development Goals and long-term economic prosperity in the region.

Does firm‐level exposure to climate change influence inward foreign direct investment? Revealing the moderating role of ESG performance

AbstractThe impact of climate change on foreign direct investment (FDI) at the corporate level is insufficiently explored, despite extensive discussions on environmental protection. This research utilizes novel panel data (2009–2022) on Chinese A‐share listed firms, using a two‐way fixed‐effect estimator to probe whether and how a firm's exposure to climate change influences the inflow of FDI, while considering the moderating role of environmental, social, and governance (ESG). The results show: (i) firm‐level exposure to climate change harms inward FDI inflow; (ii) host country firms can mitigate the negative effect of exposure to climate change on inward FDI inflow by strengthening their ESG performance; (iii) exposure to climate change primarily impacts FDI inflow through environmental taxes and green investments; (iv) the detrimental effect of climate change risk on incoming FDI is more pronounced in the central and eastern region of China, and among non‐state‐owned firms. These findings provide insightful theoretical and practical implications for addressing SDG 13 (Climate Action) challenges and for attracting multinational investments in developing countries like China.

Foreign Direct Investment Inflows into SAARC Countries: Trend Analysis

The study examines the relationship between institutional quality and FDI inflows in SAARC nations from 1981 to 2020. It employs Simple Linear and Semi log linear regression to draw conclusions. The findings indicate that corruption, political stability, government effectiveness, and GDP per capita have a positive and statistically significant influence on FDI inflows. The Semi log linear regression results show that all estimates of government effectiveness, GDP per capita, and trade openness are positive and statistically significant. This research suggests that institutional quality is important for the growth of FDI inflows. As a result, policymakers should prioritize effective institutional reforms to create a favorable investment environment and attract FDI inflows in SAARC countries.

The Impact of Digitalization on FDI Inflows in Saudi Arabia

Aim: This study investigated the impact of digitalization on foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in Saudi Arabia. m Methods: The study identified critical digitalization and institutional factors and hypothesized their influence on FDI inflows to Saudi Arabia. Multiple linear regression analysis using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method was conducted on data from 1997 to 2022, utilizing SPSS. Results: The outcomes revealed that digital infrastructure and government policy positively and significantly explain the FDI inflows in Saudi Arabia. The null hypothesis was rejected, indicating that effective digitalization and supportive government policy contribute to FDI inflows. Conclusion: The study concluded that internet access, mobile phone usage, and favorable government policies are key factors in attracting FDI inflows into Saudi Arabia. Recommendations: Policymakers should prioritize developing and implementing comprehensive digitalization strategies and regulations to improve digitalization and business-related institutions, raise the standard of digital transformation, and improve the regulatory environment framework to encourage more inward FDI inflows.

BRIC in flux: Understanding the influence of energy policy uncertainty on foreign direct investment flows

AbstractThis research investigates the intricate relationship between energy policy uncertainty (EGU) and foreign direct investment (FDI) within the BRIC economies over a comprehensive 27‐year period, spanning from 1996 to 2022. Employing advanced econometric techniques such as FMOLS and DOLS for regression analysis, the study unravels the nuanced impacts of EGU on both FDI inflows (IFD) and outflows (OFD). Drawing upon a comprehensive data set, the analysis reveals a significant negative correlation between EGU and IFD, indicating that heightened energy policy uncertainties deter foreign capital from entering BRICS nations. Contrarily, the study unveils a paradoxical positive relationship between EGU and OFD, suggesting that energy policy uncertainties stimulate the outflow of FDI, reflecting the adaptive strategies of multinational corporations navigating uncertainties. The study further explores the role of government effectiveness, labour force and financial sector development, shedding light on their positive influences on IFD and negative impacts on OFD. These findings underscore the importance of effective governance, a skilled labour force, and financial sector development in attracting and retaining foreign investments. This research contributes to the literature on energy policy, governance and FDI, offering policymakers and businesses nuanced insights into crafting strategies that enhance the attractiveness of BRIC nations for foreign investments. The study's findings have implications for shaping stable energy policies, improving governance effectiveness and fostering conditions conducive to sustained economic growth and development.

Cross Country Study of Human Capital Formation and USFDI Inflows

Purpose: The neo-classical theory of economic growth features the positive impact of the human capital of an economy on its growth. The inflow of foreign direct investment is one of the main components to carry forward the growth effect, this study investigates the impact of country-specific institutional quality and human capital on the cross-country variations of US-Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows. Our core hypothesis is that Countries with better Human capital will attract more FDI if they have good quality institutions in terms of less risk in investment opportunities. Method: Using a set of panel data of US-Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows for both developed and developing countries over the period 1984-2021. Result: The country-specific quality of institutions reinforces the impact of human capital on the inflow of US foreign direct investment in this study. Using two-dimensional panel data we find strong support for our hypothesis using a two-way fixed effects model. Our results are robust to the alternative measures of institutional quality. Implications: The strength of our approach is that in contrast to the previous works (1) we have used the USFDI inflow across countries that have been widely neglected in the related literature and (2) emphasis has been given to the conditional or joint impact of human capital and country-specific institutional quality in determining the cross-country variations in USFDI inflows.

Determinants of Foreign Direct Investment in ASEAN: Evidence from ASEAN 4 (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam)

Most developing countries in the world are working hard to attract more foreign direct investment. Identifying the key determinants of foreign direct investment is therefore seen as an essential task for policy makers. Compared to other parts of the world, the performance of ASEAN countries in attracting foreign direct investment is still poor. This study deals with identifying the determinants of foreign direct investment inflow in ASEAN 4 (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam) countries. This study estimates the panel data sample with pooled OLS and fixed and random effect models. The analyzed data covered for the period 2000 to 2020. The empirical results indicate that market size and natural resources are the most robust determinants for FDI inflows into Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Furthermore, the presence of labor costs, infrastructure, and exchange rate exerts a favorable influence on the inflow of FDI to CLMV countries. On the contrary, the findings of the paper reveal that the inflation rate has a detrimental effect on inward FDI. This partly reflects the fact that most of the world’s FDI is market-seeking. This study provides a clear understanding of the scope of the research in the field of FDI determinants as the practical implication for future research.

Internalization of the Investment Environment in the International Tourism Industry

The article presents an adaptative-institutional approach to determining the investment environment in the international tourism industry. The amount of foreign direct investment flows from international corporations to the tourism industry is analyzed. An integral index of the investment of investment capital (assets) of international corporations in the economic system of the country according to the high and low level of development of the tourism industry is proposed and calculated. The article concludes upon the necessity to create a favorable investment environment to stimulate Internalization of the Investment Environment in the International Tourism Industry further growth of tourist flows and infrastructure development. The volume of foreign direct investment in the tourism industry showed that these investments are balanced through a system of countercyclical regulation, which considers the requirements of the global economic system.

The impact of foreign direct investment on exports in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia (an empirical study)

This study is considered one of the few studies that attempted to explore the relationship between exports and foreign direct investment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study aims to determine the nature of the relationship between exports and foreign direct investment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the period between (1990–2023). Employing Ender’s methodology using cointegration and error correction model. The study also relies on data on Saudi exports and foreign direct investment inflows from the World Bank databases. The results indicate the existence of Cointegration between foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows and the Saudi exports in the period (1990–2023), as for the causal relationship between the two variables, the results showed the causal relation between exports and FDI inflows from the direction of exports only, which means that Saudi exports cause FDI inflows in Saudi Arabia, and the study recommends giving more incentives to attract foreign investors in different sector rather than oil sector, besides improving the logistical services which is vital to any investment attraction strategy.

UK Foreign Direct Investment in uncertain economic times

This paper uses time-varying Bayesian models to assess the impact of the shifting, and progressively more volatile (especially since the EU Referendum vote in 2016) macroeconomic landscape on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows to the UK. FDI inflows are depressed in response to higher UK-specific economic and geopolitical uncertainty. A stronger real exchange rate and a higher interest rate also have a negative effect. It benefits from lower UK corporate tax rates and higher US uncertainty, the latter creating investment opportunities in the UK. Rising economic policy uncertainty since the EU Referendum, has led to FDI losses of up to 0.5% of GDP.

Analysing FDI inflow effects on CO2 emissions: a comparative study of OECD and BRICS nations with PHH and PHE models

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the correlation between foreign direct investment (FDI) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in emerging economies, with a particular emphasis on Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) countries along with 10 the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development nations. Design/methodology/approach This study uses quantitative research methods and econometric analysis to investigate the relationship between FDI inflows and CO2 emissions in selected countries. Specifically, the research concentrates on assessing the impact of FDI on CO2 emissions within the BRICS countries. By examining data spanning from 2000 to 2003, the study aims to shed light on the interaction between economic integration and environmental sustainability dynamics on a global scale. Findings The results of this study highlight notable contributors to CO2 emissions within the BRICS countries, identifying Switzerland, Denmark and the UK as significant sources. These findings support the notion of a pollution haven, underscoring the influence of FDI in moulding environmental outcomes in developing economies. Research limitations/implications Drawing from the study’s outcomes, suggestions are put forth to foster sustainable development strategies. It is recommended that BRICS nations prioritize the attraction of environmentally aware FDI to bolster efforts aimed at mitigating environmental harm. Originality/value This study adds to the ongoing discussion surrounding sustainable development by offering a concentrated analysis of how FDI influences CO2 emissions within BRICS countries. Its novelty lies in questioning traditional assumptions about environmental accountability and emphasizing the necessity for cooperative endeavours between emerging and developed economies to effectively tackle global environmental issues.

Chinese FDI outflows and host country environment

This study provides first evidence on the effects of Chinese FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) outflows on host country environments. The study draws upon a comprehensive dataset covering aggregate Chinese FDI outflows and sector specific data into 65 host nations over the 2007–2019 period. Employing a STIRPAT (Stochastic Regression on Population, Affluence and Technology) model and several different techniques including DID (Difference-in-Difference), pooled OLS (Ordinary Least Squares), quantile regression, IV (Instrumental Variable) estimation, threshold and Tobit regression, the findings suggest that Chinese FDI leads to an increase in host country CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) emissions, aligning with the pollution haven hypothesis at the aggregate level. A closer investigation at the development regime and sectoral levels indicates that in the low development regime, FDI inflows into the financial and real estate sector increase emissions. Conversely in the high-income regime, Chinese FDI into the entertainment sector is associated with an increase in carbon emissions. Chinese FDI is further found to lead to an increase in emissions in countries with a per capita GDP (Gross Domestic Product) of below USD72041.7. However, as per capita income rises above USD72041.7, FDI leads to a fall in carbon emissions.

Exploring the Nexus Link of Foreign Direct Investment Inflows and Openness on Economic Growth: Evidence from BRICS Economies

This study aims to investigate how Foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade openness influenced economic growth in BRICS countries from 1990 to 2022, using the Pooled Mean Group Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PMG-ARDL) and System Generalized Method of Moments (System-GMM) methods. Our findings show that these two variables boost economic growth by 0.172, 0.021, 0.291, and 0.072%, respectively. Additionally, the results indicate that BRICS countries have demonstrated greater resilience in terms of FDI and trade before and after the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, underscoring the effectiveness of their investment and trade policies in maintaining economic growth amidst global disruptions.

RCEP: IMPLICATIONS AND CHALLENGES FOR THE EUROPEAN UNION IN A CHANGING GLOBAL ECONOMY

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), emanating from the core principles of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), represents a significant evolution in regional economic cooperation. This article delves into the intricate dynamics of RCEP, emphasizing its inception, growth, and the profound implications it holds for the European Union (EU). Tracing the history of ASEAN and its expansion, the paper examines how the ASEAN's Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with nations outside Southeast Asia, including China, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, and India, laid the groundwork for RCEP. The study highlights the strategic objectives of RCEP in fostering trade liberalization and economic integration among its member states, while also addressing disputes and promoting regional stability. The signing of RCEP in November 2020 marked a pivotal moment in Asia-Pacific economic relations, promising significant shifts in global trade dynamics. This research critically analyses the potential impact of RCEP on the EU, particularly in terms of trade, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, and the broader implications for the global multilateral trading system. The paper also explores how RCEP could reshape the EU's role and strategies in regional and global economic contexts, assessing the challenges and opportunities it presents for EU-ASEAN collaborations. The evolving relationship between Southeast Asia and the EU under the shadow of RCEP, including the promotion of regional trade at micro and macro levels, forms a critical part of this analysis. The study aims to provide comprehensive insights into the multifaceted effects of RCEP on the EU, offering valuable perspectives for policymakers and stakeholders in both regions.

A Gravity Model Approach for Determining Foreign Direct Investment Flows between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries

A Gravity Model Approach for Determining Foreign Direct Investment Flows between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries

Influence of Political Stability on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Inflows in Nigeria

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the influence of political stability on foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in Nigeria. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study indicated that political stability significantly influences foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, as investors seek environments where their investments are secure and can yield predictable returns. Stable political conditions reduce risks related to government policy changes, expropriation, and civil unrest, thereby attracting more FDI. Conversely, political instability, marked by frequent government changes, corruption, and social unrest, deters investors due to increased uncertainty and risk. Studies have shown that countries with stable political climates tend to receive higher FDI inflows as they offer a safer, more predictable investment environment. Additionally, strong institutions and good governance practices further enhance investor confidence, leading to sustained economic growth through increased foreign investment. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Institutional theory, risk theory and eclectic paradigm may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the influence of political stability on foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in Nigeria. In practical terms, businesses and investors should focus on strengthening political institutions to create a stable and predictable environment. Policymakers play a crucial role in creating an environment conducive to FDI by prioritizing the implementation of political reforms that enhance stability. Ensuring free and fair elections, protecting civil liberties, and promoting effective governance structures are vital steps in this direction.