This primer seeks to provide practical advice on how host countries can manage Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows to promote national development aspirations (such as poverty reduction, environmental sustainability and achievement of the Millennium Development Goals). It is aimed at public decision makers in developing countries dealing with FDI, particularly officials in investment boards, investment promotion agencies and relevant ministries. The primer supports and promotes the objectives of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)–United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Poverty-Environment Initiative.