The 2026 World Investment Forum, organized by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), opened in Doha, Qatar, on 25. Themed "Investing for the Future," the forum focused on directing capital toward economies and sectors that need it most, promoting inclusive and sustainable development in developing countries.
This 3-day forum brings together more than 5000 participants, including government officials, business leaders, investors, sovereign wealth fund managers, and representatives from international organizations. The event will host over 80 sessions, with more than 400 speakers discussing topics such as investment policy, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, sustainable finance, climate and environment, tourism, and culture.
The latest UNCTAD "World Investment Monitor" released today shows that international investment rose in the first half of 2026, driven by large transactions in strategic sectors, while the number of new global projects and cross-border deals continued to decline. In developing countries, investment in critical areas such as infrastructure, energy, health, and food systems fell by more than 25%.
Rixi, a UNCTAD press officer, said today in response to Xinhua reporters' questions that global investment currently faces multiple challenges. To address these, the international community must analyze investment data, strengthen policy dialogue, enhance understanding of the issues, and seek effective solutions.
Established by UNCTAD in 2008, the World Investment Forum serves as a platform for governments, investors, and businesses to advance investment policy dialogue, forge partnerships, and identify priority actions.