World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA): Outstanding Contribution to Trade & Investment in Emerging Economies Global 2016

Established in 1995 by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) provides a platform for national and regional entities seeking to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). The association has over 170 members from 130 countries who share resources, knowhow, and experience. As a result, WAIPA has become a vast repository of knowledge on the promotion and use FDI for increased economic growth.

From its foundation, WAIPA has dedicated considerable efforts to coordinate with international organisations, multilateral agencies, think tanks, and universities to build a network that members may access to find policy solutions that fit with their particular circumstance or environment. WAIPA also closely monitors investor sentiments and trends that may contain opportunities for its members.

The association also aims to foster cooperation between members with a view to developing a coherent narrative and countering protectionism. WAIPA’s annual World Investment Conference brings together investment experts, financial specialists, and academic researchers who discuss and map trends in order to define optimum investment promotion strategies. The conference is also attended by public policymakers and business leaders.

The CFI.co judging panel applauds WAIPA’s proactive approach to investment promotion, in particular as it relates to empowering its members. The judges are pleased to confer the 2016 Outstanding Contribution to Trade & Investment in Emerging Economies Global Award on the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies.