Abstract: Because of the geographical location and population pressure, European countries have great demands and markets for membrane technology, and they take the lead in membrane research and application in the world. It will provide a good reference for the development of membrane industry in China to understand the research and application situations and existing problems and to forest future development trends in Europe. Literature statistical analysis results showed that papers on membrane technology published on journals retrieved by SCI in European countries reached 1 109 in 2013, with obvious growth trend. France and Germany had a leading position in the field of membrane study. Results of market survey showed that microfiltration membrane and ultrafiltration membrane held dominant position in European membrane market, and their sales amount accounted for 46% and 23%, respectively. Currently, European membrane industry mainly focuses on the MBR and seawater desalination, and the application of MBR in industrial wastewater is early. The landfill leachate and food & beverage industry have a significant share of the MBR. Overall, the geographical conditions, increasingly stringent water standards and related policies and regulations in Europe provide a fine external surrounding for the application of membrane technology. Moreover, sufficient competition in the market will inspire new technologies and products with advantages, and then enlarge its share in the global membrane market. Referencing the development of European membrane market, it is necessary for China to use double adjustment measures of economy and technology, improve the membrane standards, policies and regulations, and cultivate leading enterprises to enhance the international competiveness of membrane market.