The development and use of sulfo- and ferroaluminate cements (SAC and FAC) in civil engineering in China over the past 10 years are reviewed. The varieties, performances and uses of the cements, whose total output in 1997 reached about 1 million tonnes per year, are briefly summarized. Comprehensive comments on the applications of SAC/FAC for concrete products, high-rise buildings, tunnels, waterproof structures, etc., are given. Technical methods of using the cements, such as controlling set time, controlling hydration heat, and improving strength and durability of concrete are discussed. The plans to develop SAC/FAC further in China are also described.