Actuality December, 28, 2007

In 2007 foreigners invested in the economy of Russia half as much again than last year. The volume of foreign direct investments (FDI) to Russia will total $45 bln, forecasts Vice Prime Minister Alexander Zhukov (a year ago it made up $30,5 bln).

From January to July, according to the Central Bank data, Russia received $27,9 bln, and for 3Q – $36,7 bln.

To FDI belong no less than 10% stocks of the Russian enterprise acquired by a foreign investor, capital investment in the fixed assets of a subsidiary company on the territory of Russia.

The global liquidity crisis has slightly affected the inflow of investments, but these investments are for a long term prospect, says Evgeny Nadorshin, the economist of Trust. Investors’ priorities didn’t change: the sphere of fuel and energy complex received 2/3 investments, says Anton Struchenevsky from Troika Dialog. The interest to the bank sector and energy grew, Nadorshin adds. By survey results of Foreign Investment Advisory Council (FIAC), more than 50% potential investors positively estimate the policy of Russia in the sphere of investments attraction. Ministry of Economic Development and Trade hopes that by 2010 this stake will grow up to 70%.

Investors’ optimism is confirmed also by the survey results of German business representatives in Russia, conducted by the German association BDI. The German investors’ optimism concerning Russia grows, states Ivan Krylov from Union of the German economy in Russia. 79% polled German investors expect the improvement of work conditions in Russia in 2008, 64% think that the situation has improved in 2007. About 60% from 128 large polled German companies plan to increase investments in Russia in 2008, 85% will increase the staff.