Figures released by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development show that despite the increasingly uncertain global economic environment, the UK has retained its position as the top destination in Europe for foreign direct investment (FDI).

Inward investment stock into the UK by the end of 2018 was worth $1.89 trillion (£1.48 trillion), more than Germany ($939 billion) and France ($825 billion) combined.

Inward FDI stock refers to the accumulated capital value of foreign companies operating in the UK.

Between 2010 and 2018, the value of inward stock in the UK increased by 77%.

Overall, there were 6,714 ‘greenfield projects’ into the UK between 2014 and 2018 — more than anywhere else in Europe, and more than France (3,283) and Spain (2,765) combined.

International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said: “These figures prove that the British economy is by far the most attractive place in Europe for foreign direct investment.

“The UK’s pro-business environment is what makes it one of the most prosperous countries in the world to invest in.

“From our booming tech industry to our world-leading financial services sector, investors from all over the world see Britain as their destination of choice for relocation.”