Abstract: The characteristics of relevant European, American and Japanese standards for stainless steel tubes and pipes are described. Detailed comparisons are made, concerning steel types, manufacturing methods, furnishing conditions and size ranges as specified in the latest editions of the said standards. It is pointed out that along with increasing its production capacity, the domestic stainless steel tube-making sector should meanwhile further strengthen developing of new steel types, complete product mix, and develop new manufacturing proce- sses for stainless steel tubular products and keep good product apparent quality in a bid to sharpen its competitive edges in the world market.