Abstract: A large number of experiments and data indicate that there are three kinds of flow regimes of Darcy and non-Darcy seepage and diffusion in the exploitation of coalbed methane. Through the investigation of relevant domestic and foreign literatures, the research progresses on the theory of coalbed methane Darcy and non-Darcy and diffusion theory are reviewed, which include Darcy's seepage theory, non-Darcy's seepage theory, linear diffusion theory, infiltration and diffusion theory, nonlinear diffusion theory considering various factors, and analysis of the authenticity and existing problems of these theories, pointing out the development direction in the future.