Abstract: In order to address the relative shortage of lithium resources in China, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure national resource security, the acceleration of the development of clay−type lithium mineral resources is imperative. This study presents a comprehensive review of the global status of clay lithium resources, which includes a detailed account of the current distribution and reserves of clay−type lithium minerals, as well as an examination of their inherent characteristics. Moreover, the developments in the technologies used to extract clay−type lithium minerals, both domestically and internationally, have been collated, and an analysis of the future development trends of these technologies has been conducted. It is evident that China has a considerable abundance of clay−type lithium minerals, which are geographically dispersed. The development of these resources would considerably mitigate the domestic lithium supply challenges. It is recommended that future research should concentrate on the improvement of exploration and extraction technologies that are specific to clay minerals. This would facilitate the accelerated development of clay−type lithium resources, reinforce strategic lithium reserves and support the sustainable growth of the new energy sector.