In China, considerable progress has been made in both basic research on cochlear implants and in the clinical application of the findings. This special topic issue includes contributions detailing the development of a speech-processing strategy specifically for Chinese speakers. It focuses on distinguishing the tonal differences in the language, the establishment of a national standard for selecting cochlear implant candidates, and the development of new surgical and rehabilitation techniques. Also, it reflects the achievements of leading Chinese otologists, audiologists, speech therapists and scientists in the field of cochlear implantation. For the first time, this publication provides a review of the recent progress in cochlear implantation in China to the international community. It is essential reading for both clinicians and researchers working in the field of ENT, hearing science and speech/language.