World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies
| Abbreviation | WAIPA |
|---|---|
| Formation | 1995 |
| Founder | UN Trade and Development and 50 investment promotion agencies |
| Type | Non-governmental organization |
| Legal status | Non-profit association (Under Swiss law) |
| Purpose | Gather and connect worldwide investment promotion agencies |
| Location | |
Region served | Worldwide |
| Services | Represent members, coordinate events and advice on policy and strategy |
| Fields | Investment |
| Membership | 133 (2024) |
Official language | English |
Executive Director | İsmail Erşahin |
| Funding | Membership fees |
| Website | waipa |
The World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA)[1] is an international non-governmental trade association in for Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs). WAIPA acts as a forum for investment promotion agencies (IPA), provides networking and promotes best practice in investment promotion.[2] It holds the annual World Investment Conference (WIC) each year.[3]
History
It was established in 1995 by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. The Secretariat has been based in Geneva, Switzerland since 1995.[4] The World Investment Conference is held in a different location around the world each year.[5]
Objectives
The objectives of WAIPA, as reflected in the Association's Statutes, are to:
- Promote and develop understanding and cooperation amongst IPAs;
- Strengthen information gathering systems, promote the efficient use of information and facilitate access to data sources;
- Share country and regional experiences in attracting foreign investment and enhancing outward investments;
- Assist IPAs to advocate the promotion of policies, within their government, which are beneficial to increasing foreign direct investment and promoting economic development;
- Facilitate access to technical assistance and promote training of IPAs.[6]
WAIPA further associates with two NGOs : The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and International Economic Development Council (IEDC).[1] Its membership covers approximately 170 entities and represents roughly 130 countries.[7][8]
See also
References
- ^ a b Staff writer (2026). "World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA)". UIA Global Civil Society Database. uia.org. Brussels, Belgium: Union of International Associations. Yearbook of International Organizations Online. Retrieved 19 January 2026.
- ^ "Extend role beyond attracting FDIs — WAIPA CEO to investment agencies". Graphic Business. November 7, 2023.
- ^ "The curtain closes on a successful World Investment Conference in New Delhi". Investment Monitor. December 21, 2023.
- ^ "World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies - WAIPA | Genève internationale". www.geneve-int.ch.
- ^ "WORLD ASSOCIATION OF INVESTMENT PROMOTION AGENCIES (WAIPA) CONCLUDES ITS FIRST ANNUAL CONFERENCE". UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
- ^ "Strengthening IPA Advocacy Services 2021 Awards". World Bank. December 10, 2020.
- ^ "World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA)". World Economic Forum.
- ^ "World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) | Devex". www.devex.com.