Abstract: Esterification and transesterification are the most common methods of producing biodiesel. It is important to select an appropriate catalyst based on the properties of raw oil. In this paper the alternative catalysts used in biodiesel production，such as acid catalyst，alkali catalyst，lipase catalyst，ionic liquid and non-catalytic process are reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of different catalysts are compared according to catalysis mechanism，and the prospect of future development in this field is presented.