There has been a significant shift in R&D spending in recent years, with China accounting for an increasing proportion of this investment. But global perceptions are yet to reflect this new shift in spending, with many outside of the country sceptical regarding China's R&D credentials and concerned about its poor reputation for IP protection.

The Trans-Pacific Partnership involves 12 countries but some look set to benefit more than others from the agreement, with Vietnam and Malaysia singled out as two likely winners.

Building on its impressive FDI record, Ireland has set itself lofty job creation goals to be achieved via a network of 'urban gateways' – and hopes to reverse the brain drain.

As the number of foreigners studying in the US hits a new high, the investment benefits of hosting overseas students are becoming increasingly apparent to universities and local investment promotion bodies alike.

The recent discovery of oil and gas reserves in Ghana presents a huge opportunity for the country and investors. However, as its minister of petroleum, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, describes, the spectre of other resource-rich African countries that have suffered from the 'oil curse' will loom large in its economic strategy.

The devastating effects of Ebola on Liberia and Sierra Leone have been displayed across news reports the world over, but while the situation regarding the disease has improved in both countries, convincing international investors that they are safe to return to either country is a tricky proposition.

With increased levels of investment into Africa, the number of legal disputes in the continent is also on the rise. These are largely resolved through arbitration and countries including Mauritius, South Africa, Rwanda and Nigeria are keen to foster expertise in this area so that they can capitalise on this lucrative new area of business. 

Originally established to protect the interests of foreign investors in host countries, bilateral investment treaties are coming under fire, with many countries arguing that the balance has tipped too far in favour of the investor.