The China International Children's Film Festival (CICFF), with a successful history of 17 editions, was established in 1989. As an international event held in China, it was approved by the State Council of the P. R. of China, registered by CIFEJ that was formed under the auspices of UNESCO in 1955, supervised by the China Film Administration of the Publicity Department of CPC, and hosted by the China Children's Film Association (CCFA). From the 14th edition, the biennial Festival has been adjusted to being held every two years or every year. 527 impressive children's films from 58 countries and regions participated in the Festival. The first six editions of the Festival were held in Beijing, and the subsequent editions were held in different cities in China. In 2002, CCFA began to hold the Festival in conjunction with local governments.

The Party and State leaders, such as Li Lanqing, Wang Guangying, Gu Xiulian, He Luli and Kang Keqing, ever attended the Festival. Under the care and guidance of the Party and the government, after more than 30 years of development, the Festival has been continuously innovating and improving its organizing form and enriching its content. The number of participating countries and films increased year by year, and the quality of participating films increased gradually.

The Festival has received unanimous recognition and support from domestic and foreign peers and the public. The social influence of the Festival has been continuously improving, and it has become one of the most influential children's film festivals in Asia and even in the world.