It is important to develop the advanced coal to chemicals industry (ACCI) against a backdrop of coal-based energy structures

excessive imported oil and natural gas

and strict environmental constraints in China. In this study

the technology and industry of China's ACCI are reviewed to explain the effect of using coal to replace oil and natural gas

and the corresponding resource and environmental burdens that this will create. Development trends in technology and industry are also proposed to explore future scenarios. The review shows that although excellent progress has been made on an industrial scale

demonstrative level

and in terms of technology and equipment

the lack of strategic understanding

severe external constraints

partly underdeveloped technologies

and weak foundations must be immediately addressed. Therefore

it is necessary to clarify the importance that the ACCI has on the energy revolution and energy system. Based on technological innovation

a variety of external factors should be considered as a whole with emphasis on filling the knowledge gap of theoretical foundations and industry standards to support high-quality development for ACCI.