Cape Verde FDI Jumps 9.4% in Q1 2026 as Tourism Surges
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Cape Verde climbed 9.4% in the first quarter of 2026, totaling 3,837.5 million escudos (€34.8 million), according to the latest data from the central bank.
Tourism and Real Estate Lead the Surge
The archipelago’s tourism and tourism-related real estate sectors remain the primary magnets for international capital, accounting for a staggering 90% of all foreign investment during the period. These sectors continue to serve as the structural engine of the Cape Verdean economy.
Geographically, investment was concentrated across four key islands. Roughly half of the total capital was directed toward Santiago, the nation\’s most populous island and home to the capital city, Praia. The islands of Sal, São Vicente, and Boa Vista followed as major beneficiaries of international interest.
Portugal Remains the Top Investor
Portugal maintained its position as the largest identified source of foreign capital. In the first three months of the year, Portuguese investors contributed 1,302.3 million escudos (€11.8 million), representing approximately 34% of the total FDI. While Portugal led the specific country rankings, 44.5% of the total investment originated from various nations aggregated under the “Other” category.
A Growing Tourism Hub
The rise in investment follows a period of significant growth for the Atlantic nation. Since 2023, the airport concession to multinational operator Vinci has bolstered the aviation sector, facilitating new routes from European airlines and improving connectivity.
This infrastructure boost contributed to a record-breaking 2025, in which Cape Verde welcomed 1.2 million guests—a 6% increase over the previous year. While the islands of Sal and Boa Vista remain the traditional hubs for all-inclusive hotel complexes, São Vicente continues to grow as a cultural gateway to the nature-tourism destination of Santo Antão.
Image: Pexels – Rob Mowe
