Workers operate the tire production chain in Korean-invested Kumho Tire Vietnam Limited Company in Dong Nai Province. — VNA/VNS Photo Vu Sinh

HA NOI (Biz Hub) — Disbursement of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Viet Nam reached an estimated US$13.2 billion from the beginning of 2015 until November 20, up 17.9 per cent against 2014.

Data from the General Statistics Office (GSO) showed that the country attracted $20.22 billion worth of FDI during the reviewed period, a year-on-year rise of 16.7 per cent. Of the sum, 1.855 new foreign-invested projects contributed $13.55 billion while the remainder was from 692 operating projects which raised their capital.

During the reviewed period, the manufacturing and processing sector lured the largest share of FDI with $12.93 billion or 64 per cent of the nation's FDI. The production and distribution of electricity, gas, hot water, steam and air conditioners came second with $2.78 billion or 13.7 per cent, while real estate trading ranked third with $2.33 billion or 11.5 per cent.

HCM City remained the most attractive destination to foreign investors as it absorbed more than $2.54 billion, making up 18.8 per cent of total FDI registered in the country. It was followed by Tra Vinh Province with $2.52 billion or 18.6 per cent, Dong Nai Province with $1.46 billion or 10.8 per cent, Binh Duong Province with $1.18 billion or 8.8 per cent, and the capital city with $813 million or 6 per cent.

From January to November 20, South Korea was Viet Nam's largest source of FDI with more than $2.5 billion, accounting for 18.6 per cent of the country's total new FDI, followed by Malaysia with over $2.4 billion, the United Kingdom with $1.3 billion, and Japan with $1.26 billion, apart from Taiwan with $911 million. — VNS