The invasion by exotic marine species is one of the most irreversible environmental problems facing this habitat. The diverse marine ecosystems and their complex environments bring challenges in terms of monitoring, control and management of these exotic species. Studies on terrestrial biological invasion in China have been numerous; but fewer studies have focused on marine exotic species in marine environment near China. Most marine exotic species analyses have been published without sufficient field investigation and experimental data. The lack of basic data regarding hazards assessment, prevention and control measure analyses remains the main challenge in those studies. In this paper, we analyzed the current situation, pathways, process and ecological effects of invasions and effects of global changes on invasions by marine exotic species. The exotic marine species have produced a great deal of negative impacts on the marine ecosystem. They compete or mate with native species, introduce pathogens and toxic algae that will directly or indirectly damage the marine ecosystem. At last, the paper highlights the need to develop databases and information management system, risk assessment methodologies and plans, continue research, publish results, and develop education materials for the general public. This paper provided direction for further research in China.