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International investors increasingly recognize Italy’s economic resilience, industrial strength, and strategic role within Europe
Italy has earned a place among the world’s fifteen most trusted economies for foreign investment, a result that reflects growing international confidence in the country’s economic prospects and long-term stability. According to the 2026 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Confidence Index, produced by global consulting firm Kearney and highlighted by Visual Capitalist, Italy now ranks among the most attractive destinations for international capital, marking a significant achievement for Europe’s third-largest economy.
The index, which is based on surveys of senior executives from major multinational corporations, is widely regarded as one of the most important indicators of investor sentiment worldwide. Rather than focusing solely on economic statistics, it captures the views of business leaders responsible for making investment decisions across global markets. Italy’s presence in the ranking therefore signals not only economic performance but also a growing perception of reliability, competitiveness, and opportunity.
The country’s placement in thirteenth position represents a notable step forward compared with a decade ago. At a time when global investment flows are increasingly influenced by geopolitical uncertainty, supply-chain disruptions, and shifting trade patterns, Italy has succeeded in strengthening its appeal to international investors. The result highlights the country’s ability to remain competitive while adapting to a rapidly evolving economic environment.
Italy’s rise in the rankings is supported by a number of structural strengths. The country continues to benefit from one of Europe’s most diversified industrial bases, with globally recognized sectors ranging from advanced manufacturing and pharmaceuticals to luxury goods, food production, engineering, and renewable technologies. Italian companies remain highly export-oriented, while the country’s network of innovative small and medium-sized enterprises continues to attract interest from foreign investors seeking quality, expertise, and long-term growth opportunities.
The ranking also confirms Italy’s importance within the broader European economy. Among European nations, Germany remains the highest-ranked country, securing fifth place globally, while the United Kingdom and France occupy sixth and seventh positions respectively. Switzerland ranks fourteenth and Spain fifteenth. Italy’s thirteenth-place position therefore places it firmly among Europe’s leading investment destinations and reinforces its role as a key economic pillar of the continent.
For international businesses, Italy offers a combination of advantages that few countries can match. Its strategic geographic location provides access to European, Mediterranean, and international markets. Its infrastructure continues to improve through modernization projects and investments supported by European initiatives. At the same time, Italian firms have demonstrated remarkable resilience in navigating periods of economic uncertainty, helping to strengthen confidence among global investors.
The findings are particularly encouraging given the increasingly competitive global landscape. The United States remains the world’s leading destination for foreign direct investment, retaining the top position it held a decade ago. America’s ability to attract international capital continues to be driven by its large domestic market, technological leadership, and strong innovation ecosystem.
Canada has climbed to second place, improving on its position from ten years earlier and confirming its reputation as one of the most stable and business-friendly economies in the world. Japan has recorded one of the most impressive advances in the ranking, rising from sixth to third place thanks to renewed investor confidence in its economic outlook and technological capabilities.
Meanwhile, China has slipped from second to fourth place. While the country remains one of the world’s most important economic powers, the change reflects a more diversified global investment landscape in which businesses are increasingly evaluating a broader range of destinations for future expansion.
Another notable development is the growing prominence of the Middle East. The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have both entered the global top ten, ranking ninth and tenth respectively. Their presence reflects major economic diversification strategies and sustained efforts to attract foreign capital beyond traditional energy sectors.
Against this backdrop of global competition, Italy’s achievement stands out as a clear indication of its improving international reputation. The country’s ability to attract investor confidence demonstrates that its economic fundamentals, industrial expertise, and strategic importance continue to resonate with global business leaders.
As governments around the world compete to attract investment, Italy’s inclusion among the fifteen most trusted economies sends a strong message. It suggests that international investors increasingly view the country not only as a historic economic power, but also as a modern, dynamic, and reliable destination capable of offering long-term opportunities in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
Alessandro Fiorentino