The diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), is an important global pest of cruciferous vegetables that has high resistance to many commonly used insecticides. There has consequently been a considerable amount of research on this species worldwide. In the past 70 years, Chinese scientists have made important contributions to research on P. xylostella, including population dynamics, insecticide resistance and comprehensive management techniques to control this pest. This paper summarizes this progress and anticipates new control techniques and strategies for the control of P. xylostella in China.