Annual Forum of Developing Country Investment Negotiators

The Annual Forum of Developing Country Investment Negotiators was first launched in Singapore in 2007 as a strategic event aimed at tackling the unique investment-related changes of developing and emerging economies. It has since evolved into an annual event and an indispensable community of investment-focused government officials. By sharing experiences and lessons learned, this group works to achieve systemic reform to help safeguard their best interests.

The overarching goal of the event is to ensure that participating countries are able to attract responsible investment that advances sustainable development and also safeguards their legitimate policy space. Participants discuss emerging issues, review recent legal developments in the field, and engage in peer learning with fellow negotiators. Between events, the community also remains engaged through IISD's Investment Policy Network, regional meetings, and peer-to-peer exchanges.

The next Annual Forum

The 14th Annual Forum is scheduled to take place in Abuja, Nigeria, in 2022. The theme of this event will be “Coherence in International Investment Governance, Crafting a Holistic Approach to Investments that Work for Sustainable Development.” 

The Abuja Forum was also complemented by a High-Level Preparatory Launch Event in September, 2021. 

Co-organizers and partner organizations

As the Annual Forum organizer, IISD has partnered with various international and regional organizations, which have been regularly represented at the meetings:

• South Centre
• Commonwealth Secretariat
• United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
• West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA)
• Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
• Common Market of Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA)
• Southern African Development Community (SADC)
• Pacific Islands Forum, Office of the Chief Trade Adviser (OCTA)
• United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)

Testimonials

Find out more about the Annual Forum and hear what participants, including Ambassador Xavier Carim of South Africa, have to say about the value of attending.