Abstract: Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of malaria in Xishuangbanna in recent 30 years and evaluate the control effort, and provide evidence for the eradication of malaria. Methods The incidence data of malaria in Xishuangbanna from 1981 to 2010 were collected from the annual reports of malaria in Xishuangbanna and from national database for disease control and prevention to conduct descriptive epidemiological analysis, and the control effect was evaluated. Results A total of 56 934 malaria cases, including 73 deaths, were reported during this period. Among these cases, 42 268 were tertian malaria cases (8 deaths), 13 330 were malignant malaria cases (62 deaths) and 1336 were unspecified malaria cases (3 deaths). In 1981, a total of 4184 cases were reported, the incidence was 660.25/lakh. In 2010, only 30 cases were reported, the incidence was 2.79/lakh. More cases occurred in males than in females. The cases were mainly distributed in young adults aged 15-35 years. Farmers, workers, students and children outside child care setings were the major populations affected. The disease mainly occurred during May-September of a year. Conclusion Malaria is under effective control with the incidence declined year on year in Xishuangbanna after the 30 years effort of malaria prevention and control. The local transmission level of the disease is low, but the imported malaria highlights the importance of continued prevention and control of the disease in Xishuangbanna.