Against a backdrop of increasing global protectionism, foreign direct investment (FDI) regulation has become a critical piece of the regulatory jigsaw in recent years. This chapter sets out an overview of key global trends, highlighting notable examples of these trends in action in particular jurisdictions and the impact on the approach to FDI regulation. It also offers practical guidance for investors seeking to minimise deal risk and navigate the approval process as smoothly as possible. This chapter was first published in December 2022 as the introductory chapter to the second edition of the GCR Guide to Foreign Direct Investment Regulation. It is authored by Veronica Roberts, Ruth Allen and Ali MacGregor.