China's foreign investment tanks 99% in 3 years amid economic slowdown

Country sees cutbacks by IBM, Microsoft, Bridgestone and others in 2024

20250214N china flag surveillance camera KYODO

China's increasing focus on national security, including espionage, has foreign companies worried. © Kyodo

KENTARO SHIOZAKI and SHUNSUKE TABETA

BEIJING -- Foreign direct investment in China plunged 99% over the past three years, Chinese government data shows, as an economic slowdown and concerns about an intensifying anti-spying campaign drive companies away.

Balance of payments data released Friday showed new investments narrowly outpacing capital withdrawn for a net inflow of $4.5 billion in 2024, falling roughly 90% from 2023 to the lowest level in 33 years. Last quarter saw net inward FDI turn positive to the tune of $17.5 billion after two quarters of outflows between April and September.

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