According to Nicaraguan investment promotion firm ProNicaragua, the country experienced a large boost in foreign direct investments last year, putting the South American nation in the international investment spotlight.

ProNicaragua reported that in 2012, the country set a new personal best of US$1.28 billion, equivalent to a 33% increase from 2011. This is a tremendous feat, considering that Nicaragua's 2011 foreign direct investment value was 91% more than the year before. In summary, the country's foreign direct investment levels have doubled in only two years.

According to Gen. Alvaro Baltodano, a presidential spokesperson for FDIs, "The historic level of growth reached in 2012 demonstrates the commitment of the Government of Reconciliation and National Unity to continue improving the investment climate, facilitate investment processes, and promote socio-economic development in the country."

A total of 37 countries made investments in Nicaragua. The new investment darling ranked second in the region, lagging behind Venezuela.

FDIs in Nicaragua were targeted in the trade and services, mines, energy, and free-zone sectors.