In 2011, Nicaragua had an extraordinary performance attracting a total of US$968 million of FDI, growing 90.5% when compared to 2010.The FDI attracted in 2011 was led mainly by the energy, telecommunications and free zones sectors, which together accounted for 52 percent of total FDI.
Nicaragua´s performance not only improved in FDI attraction, but also in exports and GDP growth. According to the Central Bank of Nicaragua (BCN, by its acronym in Spanish), Nicaraguan exports reached US$2,264 million in 2011, increasing 22.3% when compared to the year before.
These are some of the factors that contributed in Nicaragua reaching a 4.7% GDP growth rate in 2011. In all three indicators, Nicaragua has taken the lead with the highest rates in Central America.
In 2012, Nicaragua hopes to maintain the same levels of economic performance than the year before. Currently, FDI attraction in the first quarter has reached US$289 million, an increase of 76% when compared to the same period of 2011. In addition, exports of goods in the first semester have shown a 9% increase.
As a result of prolific fiscal, financial and currency exchange policies and the government´s efforts towards building a more favorable business climate, Nicaragua has experienced sustained economic growth in recent years.
