Abstract: The issue caused by invasive alien species is a major threat to ecological security, biosafety and food security in China. A series of measures has been undertaken nationally, including laws and regulations, institutional mechanisms, control and clearance. However, several weaknesses in the prevention and control of invasive alien species have not yet been resolved, and the effectiveness of controls remains inadequate. Here, the invasive status of alien species, as well as different stakeholders and their relationship involved in invasive alien species prevention and control were analyzed. The progress and problems of the invasive alien species prevention and control systems in China were also investigated. In addition, approaches for establishing effective prevention and control have been proposed, including the development of an appropriate guiding ideology, definition of the objectives of prevention and control, establishment of a sound legal framework, improvement of systems and mechanisms for prevention and control, and implementation of comprehensive management.