Abstract: Atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS) has such characteristics of chemical vapor separation and non dispersive optical system. It is one of the most successful analytical methods available to determine trace As, Sb, Bi, Hg, Se, Te and Ge elements. Researchers in China have made important contributions to the development of AFS. Many technological patents have been invented, for example, the high-strength hollow cathode lamp, small flame atomization, and argon-hydrogen flame low temperature automatic ignition device. The multi-channel atomic fluorescence spectrometer, hydride generation and flame atomic fluorescence spectrometer and atomic fluorescence RoHS analyzer have also been further developed. New chemical vapor generation systems and specific reagents for the determination of Pb, Zn, Cr and Cd. A new method for indirect determination of I and Mo by AFS have also been established. Five monographs have been published and many achievements in research and application have been published annually. Described herein is an overview of the development of AFS in the past nearly twenty years, synthetically described on monograph publications, review literatures, equipment, technology and applications respectively in geological, biological, water, air, metals, alloys, chemical raw materials and reagents, etc. The developments of AFS in the form and valence state analysis are also reviewed in this article. It points out that research on a new type of laser excitation source, the development of a more stable and reliable high-strength hollow cathode lamp, broadening the testing elements and areas, and an in-depth study on the reaction mechanism are the future direction of the development of AFS.