The government of El Salvador recognizes that attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) is crucial to improving the economy. Over the past two years they have passed investment promotion legislation. However, FDI levels are still paltry and lag far behind regional neighbors. The Central Bank reported the FDI at USD 275 million in 2014. Meanwhile, in 2013 El Salvador's regional neighbors experienced increased levels of FDI, by on average attracting USD 1.4 billion per country.Political uncertainty, inconsistent and burdensome commercial regulations, a sometimes ineffective judicial system, and widespread violent crime undermine El Salvador's investment climate. CAFTA-DR, the free trade agreement among Central American countries, the Dominican Republic, and the United States, includes an investment chapter and other provisions that have strengthened investment dispute resolution for member state companies with interests in El Salvador.