Andhra Pradesh emerges as top investment destination in India: Forbes report

Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the top destination for investments in India. According to the Forbes, more than 25 percent of all foreign and domestic investments flowing into the country are made In AP.

The state's investor‑friendly industrial policies, robust infrastructure development, and proactive government initiatives have attracted global investors, as per the statistics of Forbes magazine. AP is ahead of other states in sectors such as data‑centres, green energy and artificial intelligence.

Forbes' report, citing recent data, says Andhra Pradesh has secured investment proposals worth about ₹13 lakh crore. During the CII summit, the state signed over 600 MoUs opening a new chapter in its industrial history. These massive investments are expected to create more than 16 lakh jobs in the state.

Within just 48 hours, AP attracted ₹150 billion in investments, creating a nationwide stir, Forbes noted. Leading global firms such as Google, Reliance and the Adani Group have chosen Andhra Pradesh as their key hub. The government is fast‑tracking innovative projects like the Drone City in Kurnool and the Quantum Valley in Amaravati, aiming to transform the state into a technology hub.

Forbes highlighted that the Speed of Business policy implemented by the government led by Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has boosted investor confidence. According to the magazine, compared with southern neighbours Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh is currently outpacing them in securing investments. Telangana is way behind with just 9.5 percent

Reacting to Forbes report Chandrababu Naidu said this is welcome news for the people of Andhra Pradesh and a strong start to the year. 'It reflects the impact of our forward-looking policy reforms, particularly the Speed of Doing Business initiatives, including the introducing the concept of an escrow-based mechanism for timely and transparent incentive distribution, as well as the introduction of clear, sector-specific policies. I thank the investors who have chosen Andhra Pradesh as their destination for growth and for the confidence they have placed in our vision. I also acknowledge the commitment and efforts of the Government of Andhra Pradesh team,' the Chief Minister said.

'This milestone represents not an endpoint, but a foundation for continued progress. We remain focused on expanding impact, strengthening partnerships, and delivering sustained growth for the state,' Chandrababu Naidu said.