UK outstrips other EU nations as top investment destination in Europe
Latest OECD data shows rising investment in UK amid an uncertain economic global outlook.
Data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) published today shows the total value of foreign investment stock into the UK by the end of 2018 increased by 5% to $1,890 billion.
The figures confirm the UK as the leading destination for foreign direct investment in Europe, and the third most significant in the world, behind the US and China.
As of December 2018, the UK holds more inwards investment stock than Germany ($920bn), Spain ($659bn) and Poland ($229) combined.
International Trade Secretary and President of the Board of Trade, Dr Liam Fox MP, said:
The latest OECD figures show the UK remains one of the world’s most attractive destinations for foreign investment. Those who would talk down Britain’s economic performance are proven wrong once again.
We are the investment capital of Europe attracting far more than any of our closest competitors. International investors continue to recognise the fundamental strengths of our economy – everything from our predictable legal system to our world leading financial services.
Foreign direct investment creates jobs, deepens ties with key markets around the world and underpins Britain’s credentials as the global champion of free trade. My international economic department will ensure the benefits of foreign direct investment continue to be felt right across the country.