We uncovered valuable insights from the collaboration between WAIPA and the World Bank in our recent webinar on Investment Promotion Agencies, where we explored the findings of our recent survey comparing the state of IPAs from 2005 to the present.
Our esteemed speakers, including Ismail Ersahin, CEO of WAIPA, set the tone with enlightening remarks, emphasizing the pivotal role of investment promotion agencies (IPAs) in shaping global investment landscapes. Ismail underscored the significance of the survey conducted in collaboration with the World Bank, highlighting its potential to revolutionize IPA strategies worldwide.
During the session, Mr. Armando Heilbron, Former Investment Promotion Workstream Leader at the World Bank, and Mr. Eduardo Antonio Jimenez Sandoval, experts from the World Bank, delved into the intricacies of the survey methodology and its key findings. Mrreflected on the journey since 2005, highlighting the evolution of IPA strategies and the challenges they faced, particularly amidst the unprecedented disruptions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eduardo provided deeper insights into the survey results, offering a comprehensive analysis of IPA responses and shedding light on emerging trends and patterns.
We also explored the significance of the economy, particularly through the lens of Invest India, where Mr. Piyush Niranjan shed light on Invest India’s strategic approach and its alignment with broader economic objectives. Key takeaways included the emphasis on competitive segments, institutional autonomy, and fostering a conducive investment ecosystem. Success stories, such as Startup India, underscored the transformative impact of the initiatives on entrepreneurship and innovation.
Next, Ms. Selma Namutuwa, Manager of Investment Attraction at the Namibia Investment Promotion Development Board, shared insights on the sectoral alignment of new-age IPAs, focusing particularly on the NIPP’s endeavors in green hydrogen. Highlighting Namibia’s journey, she discussed pivotal milestones such as the launch of the HPP 2 in 2021 and the formation of the Green Hydrogen Council. Moreover, she underscored Namibia’s emergence as a hub for green industrialization, leveraging its natural resources for sustainable development.
Further, Mr. Samet Akyüz, Unit Manager of the Strategy and Corporate Planning Unit at the Investment Office of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye, emphasized the importance of IPAs having distinct mandates based on their objectives and highlighted the significance of attachment to the head of government for enhanced efficacy. With a global footprint and a focus on technology-driven projects, Mr. Akyuz reaffirmed the office’s commitment to streamlining processes and providing efficient services to investors.
Lastly, Mr. Ivan Nimac, Global Lead for Investment Policy and Promotion at the World Bank, shared insightful closing remarks and underscored the importance of leveraging digital technologies and addressing administrative challenges to maintain a favorable investment climate. He also addressed policy challenges, including the contradiction between investment promotion and increasing barriers to investment. Ivan highlighted the crucial role IPAs play in supporting the green energy transition and encouraged continued collaboration among agencies and with WAIPA in future endeavours.
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Webinar’s Photos
