FDI and Sustainability: A Systematic Mapping of Determinants and Methods

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is increasingly shaped by sustainability considerations, yet the field lacks a consolidated understanding of how these evolving drivers are captured through different methodological approaches. Addressing this methodological gap, this article explores various approaches to the relationship between FDI and sustainability, with a focus on how understanding of the factors influencing FDI is evolving. A systematic search of the Web of Science Core Collection was conducted using predefined search terms related to sustainability and FDI. Following the screening process, the article analyses 143 studies published between 2016 and 2025. A systematic mapping review of the literature is combined with quantitative and qualitative techniques to highlight the current situation and existing trends, and to propose directions for developing research methodologies to enhance the investigation of FDI in the context of sustainability. The findings indicate that traditional determinants remain central, while sustainability factors are increasingly considered to influence location decisions. Importantly, methodologies are not associated with the set of determinants taken into consideration, but rather with the research design and the structure of data. Subsequently, the analysis highlights and discusses trends and gaps in methodological perspectives and proposes directions for strengthening research designs.