insight

Foreign Direct Investments in Denmark keeps its footing in a shifting global economy

insight

Foreign Direct Investments in Denmark keeps its footing in a shifting global economy

In a world where capital is increasingly selective, Denmark continues to pass the investor test. New figures show that the stock of Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in Denmark increased by 6 % from 2022 to 2024, underlining the country’s position as a stable, competitive and well-run destination for international companies looking to grow in Europe. 

When

There were notable differences across investor countries. While FDI from the US declined, investment from Italy and several other European countries increased markedly. At a regional level, the overall growth in FDI was primarily driven by European companies expanding their footprint in Denmark.

A steady rise, with resilience built in

The latest annual stocktaking shows that the total stock of FDI in Denmark increased by DKK 62.6 billion (approx. EUR 8 billion) between 2022 and2024, bringing the total to DKK 1,175.3 billion.

Growth was strongest from 2022 to 2023, when FDI rose by 55.2 billion (approx. EUR 7 billion), likely reflecting the reopening of global economies after the COVID period. From 2023 to 2024, growth continued at a more moderate pace, increasing by DKK 7.4 billion (around EUR 1 billion), equalling a 0,6 % rise. 

Stock of FDI in Denmark, 2022-2024

Stock of FDI in Denmark, 2022-2024
The Danish Central Bank and own calculations. Nominal growth. Data on roundtrip FDI are included.

This slower pace should not be mistaken for weakness. In a period marked by geopolitical uncertainty, tighter financial conditions and more cautious global investment flows, Denmark’s ability to maintain growth speaks to the underlying strength of its business environment.

Denmark’s consistent top rankings for competitiveness help explain why. The country ranks first globally in the IMD Business Efficiency ranking in both 2024 and 2025, reflecting strong institutions, efficient regulation. A highly skilled workforce and a business culture built on trust and transparency.

European investors take the lead

While total FDI has grown, the composition of investor countries has shifted. The increase in FDI stock has been driven primarily by European investors, supported by growing interest from Asia. Among the ten largest investor countries in Denmark, Italy stands out. The stock of Italian FDI in Denmark increased by 85 percent between 2022 and 2024, nearly doubling over the period. Significant increases were also recorded from Norway, Germany, Switzerland and Japan.

At the same time, the FDI stock from the US, the UK, Sweden and Finland declined by around 5 to 6 percent over the same period.

This pattern reflects a broader trend. European companies are strengthening their footprint within Europe, prioritising locations that offer regulatory stability, access to talent, green energy and seamless access to EU markets. Denmark checks all of those boxes.

Top-10 countries by share of FDI stock in Denmark, development 2022-2024 (total stock, by ultimate country of origin)  

Top-10 countries by share of FDI stock in Denmark, development 2022-2024 (total stock, by ultimate country of origin)
Source: The Danish Central Bank and own calculations. Nominal growth

Regional picture: Europe and Asia up, the Americas down

Looking at FDI by region reinforces this story. From 2022 to 2024, the value of FDI stock in Denmark increased by DKK 38.7 billion from European investors and by DKK 18.1 billion from Asian investors.

In contrast, FDI originating from companies in the Americas declined by DKK 6.5 billion, while investment from Africa decreased slightly.

The figures suggest that Denmark is increasingly seen as a natural European base for companies that want proximity to key markets, robust supply chains and a future-ready operating environment.

Stock of FDI in Denmark, by regions, difference 2022-2024, bn. DKK (total stock, by ultimate country of origin)

Source: The Danish Central Bank and own calculations. Nominal growth. Europe includes EU-countries, Norway, Switzerland and UK. Data on roundtrip FDI are not included. Data on certain countries and Oceania are discretionary and therefore not included. 

Why Denmark keeps attracting investment

Denmark’s appeal is not built on one single factor. It is the combination that matters. Companies investing in Denmark gain access to a highly educated workforce, world-class digital and physical infrastructure, competitive corporate taxation and a strong focus on sustainability and green energy.

Add to that a collaborative public sector, fast decision-making and a proven ability to turn policy ambition into practical solutions, and Denmark offers something rare in today’s investment landscape: predictability with progress.

For international companies looking to establish or expand a European presence, Denmark continues to offer a safe harbour for capital and a strong platform for long-term growth. 

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Want to know what Denmark can offer your business?

Invest in Denmark helps international companies establish and expand operations in Denmark. Our services are free of charge and fully confidential. We provide market insights, sector expertise and direct access to the Danish business ecosystem. Get in touch to explore how Denmark can support your European growth plans.

Copenhagen

  • Sarina Lohmann

    Title: Special Advisor – Maritime and transport – Analysis & Partnerships

    Area: Copenhagen

    Phone: +4533920423

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