Specifically, the above figure includes US$3.6 billion poured in 405 newly-registered projects, up 55.2 percent in value against the same period last year. 

Foreign investors pledged to increase investments by US$442.1 million in 159 other projects, reported the ministry.

Capital contributions and share purchases saw a year-on-year drop of 68 percent, equivalent to US$ 255.4 million.