Improvements in regulatory environment for investment

UNCTAD's Investment Policy Monitor found that 25 countries took 36 investment policy measures in the review period (November 2013-February 2014). These measures show a continued move towards improving entry conditions, reducing restrictions and facilitating foreign investment.

Among the most important policy measures are a liberalisation of the oil industry in Mexico and the adoption of a new investment law in Mongolia.

Other countries continue to pursue their privatisation programs. Overall, the extractive industry has been among the most active sector in terms of investment policy developments in recent years.

Regarding international investment policies, the Monitor found that 10 economies concluded six new international investment agreements (IIAs), that is five bilateral investment treaties (BITs) and one other IIA. The move towards regional IIAs continues as several such agreements are being negotiated.

There is a slowdown in the conclusion of BITs and an increase of treaty-making at regional and inter-regional levels. A scaling-up of IIAs through 'mega-regionals' occurs in parallel to efforts for change of (or exit from) the regime by some developing countries.

UNCTAD's Investment Policy Monitor is a regular publication that provides the international investment community with country-specific, up-to-date information about the latest development in foreign investment policies.