The Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Business Council within the International Trade Council is a specialized entity dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the intricacies, challenges, and vast opportunities presented by cross-border investments. Recognizing the significant role that FDI plays in stimulating economic growth, technology transfer, and the interconnectedness of global economies, the council serves as a pivotal point of engagement for investors, governments, corporations, and financial institutions aiming to navigate the complexities of international investments.
Chairperson:
- Carl Viel, President & CEO, Québec International [LinkedIn]
Board Members:
- Daniel Evans, Chief Executive, Birmingham Enterprise Community [LinkedIn]
- Debra Charleen Lewis, Director of External Affairs, Government of Montserrat [LinkedIn]
- Rama Ayman, CEO, MMG Capital [LinkedIn]
Areas of Focus:
- Investment Strategies: The council provides insights into successful investment strategies tailored to specific sectors, regions, and economic climates, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions.
- Regulatory Environment: Understanding the legal and regulatory frameworks of target investment destinations is crucial. The council aids businesses in comprehending and adhering to these frameworks, ensuring compliant and smooth investment processes.
- Economic Impact Analysis: Delving into the macro and micro-economic implications of FDI, the council studies its effects on job creation, technology transfer, and overall economic development in both source and recipient countries.
- Risk Management: International investments often come with geopolitical, economic, and cultural risks. The council offers tools, resources, and insights to help investors evaluate and mitigate these risks effectively.
- Sector-specific Opportunities: Focusing on various sectors like technology, healthcare, infrastructure, and energy, the council sheds light on industry-specific investment opportunities, trends, and challenges.
- Incentives and Benefits: Many countries offer incentives to attract FDI. The council provides comprehensive information about these incentives, including tax breaks, grants, and other benefits, helping investors leverage them optimally.
- Mergers and Acquisitions: As a significant component of FDI, the council focuses on the dynamics of international mergers and acquisitions, offering guidance on best practices, due diligence, and integration strategies.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Ensuring that all involved parties in an FDI venture align with mutual interests is crucial. The council facilitates dialogue and collaboration between investors, governments, local communities, and other stakeholders.
- Sustainable Investment: In an era emphasizing sustainable development, the council promotes environmentally and socially responsible investment practices, ensuring that FDIs lead to holistic and sustainable growth.
- Post-investment Management: Beyond the initial investment phase, the council offers insights on managing and optimizing foreign assets, repatriation of profits, and potential exit strategies.
Outputs of the Business Council:
- Research Reports
- Webinars
- Legislative Recommendations
- Thought-Pieces / Blog Posts
- Participation in Industry Events
- Collation of Industry News
- Mentoring
