The current article is a synthesis of progress in cryopreservation state and research of plant germplasm resources in the world, based on the Second Report of the State of the World’s Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, International Conferences and other literatures. The contents covered material types, basic procedures, methods and techniques, theoretical basis, influence factors, costs, strategy and practical application in the cryopreservation of plant germplasm resources. It also identified the gaps and put forward striving direction and the suggestions for strengthening the safety and long-term cryopreservation of non-orthodox seed plant germplasm resources in China.