Abstract: With the aid of available literature database and related data-sharing networks, a review is presented of methods for classification and assessment of genetic resources in value, from the perspective of a complete genetic resources economic value assessment system. Besides, analysis was done of the status quo of and existing problems in the studies at home and abroad on values of genetic resources in regional socioeconomic development. It is held that genetic resources contribute significantly to the development of regional socioeconomy. However, little has been done so far on how to assess values of the genetic resources at the species level in China . Compared with what it is in other countries, the genetic resources socioeconomic value assessment system is not complete. What it covers is mostly forests or forest parks and is little related to other aspects. Therefore, how to build up a set of more scientific and complete measuring and evaluation systems, and how to better protect genetic resources will become a focal points in future research.

Key words: genetic resources, value classification, value assessment, social and economic contribution