Introduction

The boom in foreign direct investment (FDI) since the mid-1980s, continues to be paramount in policy interest. This book reviews the literature on the nature of FDI and reports the recent results on the performance of FDI plants in order to show the implications for regional economic development.

New Evidence and Methodology

It presents new evidence on the nature and performance of these plants, using a unique dataset that has been constructed and rigorously analyzed by applying econometric techniques.

Role of FDI in Economic Development

The role of FDI in economic development has long been poorly understood and this book contributes to improving understanding, and is of direct policy relevance.

Analysis and Implications

An examination is made of the generation, theory and location of FDI, as well as its implications for regional and national development. In addition to this, analysis is made of the issues at the project and plant levels, related to investment, employment and firm survival.