RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS: WORKING PAPERS
Foreign Direct Investment, Trade and Economic Development: An Overview
This paper explores the dynamic relationships between foreign direct investment (FDI), international trade, and economic development. First, emphasizing the pivotal role of multinational enterprises (MNEs) - particularly in the context of Global Value Chains (GVCs) - it underscores how FDI and trade are mutually reinforcing. Then, it highlights the convergence of investment and trade policies, pointing out the impact of Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs) on trade flows and the increasing inclusion of investment provisions in Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs). Third, examining global FDI trends, it shows that developing and emerging economies are still lagging behind, but they are fast growing in importance. Finally, it draws on a rich empirical literature to show how FDI drives economic development through knowledge spillovers, technology transfer, and export upgrading.
Staff Working Paper: Research ERSD-2023-11
Authors: Michael Blanga-Gubbay, Stela Rubínová
Manuscript date: 12 December 2023
Key Words:
foreign direct investment, international trade, economic development
JEL classification numbers:
F21, F23, O19
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This is a working paper, and hence it represents research in progress. The opinions expressed in this paper are those of its author. They are not intended to represent the positions or opinions of the WTO or its members and are without prejudice to members' rights and obligations under the WTO. Any errors are attributable to the author.
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