Abstract: Research progress of halogen-free flame retardant polyolefin cable materials in recent years from the aspects of matrix resin and flame retardant were summarized in this review. The flame retardant mechanism and research progress of metal hydroxide flame retardant, phosphorus flame retardant, intumescent flame retardant system and bio-based flame retardant system were analyzed and introduced. The research status of halogen-free flame retardant cable materials was comprehensively described. Finally, development of halogen-free flame retardant technology in field of cable materials was prospected to be efficient, green, intelligent and multifunctional, such as the gradual rise of bio-based flame retardant.