France's attraction scoreboard. According to a study published by the ministry for the economy, industry and employment in France, the country is a top ranking international investment player. It is the main host country in Europe for foreign direct investment and the third biggest in the world, behind the US and China, according to the most recent report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). More than 20 000 businesses have set up in France, while 30,000 French companies have invested outside the country's borders. French subsidiaries of foreign groups are making a significant contribution to the national economy and have created more than 22 million jobs, while 20% of R&D and almost 40% of exports are linked to these foreign businesses. Since 2007 and during the midst of the financial crisis, new investments made by foreign companies helped keep or create more than 30,000 jobs a year. Investors, however, do have expectations with regard to labour flexibility, tax stability and their relations with the authorities. (I.L./transl.fl)