Washington, DC - The State Department today released the first of the annual Investment Climate Statements it prepares annually for over 170 foreign markets. Prepared primarily by our embassies and consulates overseas, the Statements provide economy-specific information and assessments on the investment climate in foreign markets.

New this year to the Investment Climate Statements is an improved viewer that not only enables readers to view individual country and economy reports, but also to create their own customized reports on specific report topics across regions and economies. This data can assist U.S. companies to make informed decisions regarding investment in foreign markets.

The Investment Climate Statements include examples of expanding openness to foreign investment and investor protections, as well as challenges and barriers to investment. Topics include: Openness to Investment, Legal and Regulatory Systems, Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property Rights, Transparency, Performance Requirements, State-owned Enterprises, Responsible Business Conduct, and Corruption.

Economic growth in the United States increasingly depends on the ability of U.S. firms to compete successfully in overseas markets. More than 95 percent of the world’s consumers live beyond the borders of the United States, and approximately 18 percent of U.S. goods exports are sent by U.S. parent companies to their foreign affiliates. U.S. multinational companies account for nearly half of all U.S. goods exports.