FDI inflows to India surge by 73% to $47 billion in 2025
The Indian economy has witnessed a significant boost in foreign investment, with the inflow of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) surging by 73% to $47 billion in 2025, according to a report by the UN Trade and Development. This remarkable increase is a testament to the country’s growing appeal as a destination for foreign investors, driven by large investments in services like finance and IT, as well as manufacturing.
The report highlights the significant growth in FDI inflows to India, which has been steadily increasing over the past few years. The country’s efforts to improve its business environment, simplify regulatory frameworks, and promote investment have borne fruit, making it an attractive destination for foreign investors. The services sector, in particular, has been a major driver of FDI inflows, with investments in finance, IT, and other services accounting for a significant share of the total inflows.
The manufacturing sector has also seen a significant increase in FDI inflows, with many foreign companies setting up production facilities in India to take advantage of the country’s large market, skilled workforce, and favorable business environment. The government’s “Make in India” initiative, launched in 2014, has been instrumental in promoting India as a manufacturing hub, and the results are now beginning to show.
In contrast, FDI inflows to China declined for the third consecutive year, falling by 8%. This decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including a slowing economy, rising labor costs, and increasing competition from other emerging markets. The decline in FDI inflows to China is a significant development, as the country has been one of the largest recipients of foreign investment in recent years.
The surge in FDI inflows to India is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy, creating new jobs, promoting economic growth, and increasing competitiveness. The influx of foreign investment will also help to bridge the gap in India’s balance of payments, reducing the country’s reliance on foreign debt and promoting stability in the foreign exchange market.
The Indian government has been actively promoting foreign investment, with a range of initiatives aimed at simplifying regulatory frameworks, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and promoting investment. The government has also established several investment promotion agencies, including the Invest India agency, which provides support and facilitation to foreign investors.
The surge in FDI inflows to India is also a testament to the country’s growing appeal as a destination for foreign investors. India’s large and growing market, skilled workforce, and favorable business environment make it an attractive destination for foreign companies looking to expand their operations in Asia. The country’s strategic location, with access to major markets in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, also makes it an ideal hub for trade and investment.
In terms of sectoral distribution, the services sector accounted for the largest share of FDI inflows, followed by manufacturing and construction. The IT sector, in particular, has been a major driver of FDI inflows, with many foreign companies setting up IT facilities in India to take advantage of the country’s skilled workforce and favorable business environment.
The state-wise distribution of FDI inflows also reveals some interesting trends. Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka were the top three states in terms of FDI inflows, accounting for over 50% of the total inflows. These states have been actively promoting foreign investment, with a range of initiatives aimed at simplifying regulatory frameworks, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and promoting investment.
In conclusion, the surge in FDI inflows to India is a significant development, highlighting the country’s growing appeal as a destination for foreign investors. The increase in FDI inflows is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy, creating new jobs, promoting economic growth, and increasing competitiveness. As the Indian economy continues to grow and develop, it is likely that FDI inflows will continue to play an important role in promoting investment and driving economic growth.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/economy/indias-fdi-inflows-surge-74-to-47-billion-un-data-10864485/amp/1