In the context of a joint programme to support IPAs from developing countries, UNCTAD and the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) organized a study tour to the Office of the Foreign Investment Ombudsman (OIO)/KOTRA of the Republic of Korea.
Nine professionals from IPAs of 8 developing countries and one developed country participated in the study tour. Four representatives from least developed countries (LDCs), one representative from a land-locked developing country and one from an island developing country were sponsored through an UNCTAD project.
The main objective of the study tour was to exchange best practices and experiences on aftercare services and investment retention - a key function of OIO.
This Office uses a unique system of "home doctors" who are involved in solving grievances in specialized areas such as taxes, construction and legal matters. During the study tour, presentations were given and open discussions were held with OIO and other KOTRA staff, particularly with officials from Invest Korea, which is an integral part of KOTRA.
The study tour also included visits to a number of Korean agencies, such as a local Investment Support Centre and international companies.
