Flame retardant thermoplastic compositions that are capable of being used in a laser direct structuring process. The compositions include a thermoplastic resin, a laser direct structuring additive, and a flame retardant. The compositions offer flame retardant characteristics while also substantially maintaining the mechanical properties of the base thermoplastic resin, such as the impact strength and/or HDT of the composition. The compositions can be used in a variety of applications such as personal computers, notebook and portable computers, cell phone and other such communications equipment.