Abstract: Shandong is rich in mineral resources but is seriously deficient in mining investment, and FDI absorption is one of the solutions. The calculation and comparison of the FDI (foreign direct investment) absorption performance index and potentiality index of Shangong mining cities can provide the basis for policy decision regarding the effective promotion of the economically coordinated sustainable development of these mining cities by FDI absorption. The analysis has made the following conclusions: Laiwu and Zibo are strong in FDI absorption; Dongying hasn't brought into play its potentiality in this respect; and Linyi, Zaozhuang and Jining have low potentiality and weak sustainability in relevant investment absorption. The performance of FDI absorption of the mining cities can be improved by such measures as improving the soft environment for mining investment; diversifying industrial flows; developing substituting industries for successful industrial transfer; participating regional division; and protecting environment to realize sustainable development.

Key words: Shandong, Mining cities, Performance index, Potentiality index, FDI