The United States, Canada, China, Japan, and Germany ranked as the most attractive economies for FDI in 2026, according to a survey conducted by Kearney.

The Kearney FDI Confidence Index 2026 is based on a survey conducted in January 2026 of 507 senior executives. It includes companies with revenues exceeding $500 million, from 29 markets and various economic sectors.

Most Attractive Economies for FDI

For the fourteenth consecutive year, the United States ranks first in the Index. Although its overall score has fallen to its lowest level since 2022 and optimism about its outlook has declined significantly, it remains the most attractive market for investors, primarily due to its high level of technological innovation (43%) and economic performance (37%).

The United States overwhelmingly leads the world in private AI investment, having attracted $470.9 billion in AI investment since 2013, according to Stanford University’s 2025 AI Index. 

Furthermore, it has demonstrated economic resilience for much of the past year and is expected to grow by 2.4 percent in 2026, thanks to a stabilizing labor market and solid productivity growth.

Canada

Canada is closing the gap with the United States by raising its score from 2.0932 to 2.1373. It also retains second place for the fourth consecutive year. This performance reflects macroeconomic stability and a favorable environment for foreign investment in strategic sectors.

Investors also highlight natural resources and technological innovation as key drivers. Record oil and gas production in 2025 and the push for artificial intelligence infrastructure strengthen its appeal. Consequently, Canada consolidates its competitive position in global markets.

Asian Countries

Asia consolidates its leadership in the Index, with 10 of the top 25 markets. Furthermore, it overtakes Europe for the first time in 13 years. In this context, Japan rises to third place, driven by its technological innovation and active policies to attract foreign investment.

Meanwhile, China moves up to fourth place. This performance reflects a changing geoeconomic environment and the diversification of global trade alliances. Furthermore, its leadership in artificial intelligence and the size of its domestic market reinforce its appeal to international investors.