ObjectiveTo understand the research progress of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) family in regulating the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its mechanism, in order to provide a reference for the basic research and clinical diagnosis and treatment of HCC. MethodThe relevant literature on the regulation of HCC occurrence, development, and mechanisms by MMPs both domestically and internationally in recent years was reviewed. ResultsThe extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment of HCC cells determined the invasiveness and degree of metastasis of tumor cells. The degradation and remodeling of ECM during epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) were the main factors contributing to the invasion and metastasis of HCC. The abnormal expression of most members of the MMPs family could lead to ECM breakdown, cell invasion and attachment, and markedly accelerate the process of EMT, thereby promoting the invasion and metastasis of HCC cells. At present, there were many MMPs related to the development of HCC, including MMP-1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 12, 13, 14. The relevant research on the relation between MMP-8, 10, 11, 15, 16, 20, 21, 26 or 28 and the development of HCC was relatively limited, while the exact research on the relationship between the MMP-17, 19, 23, 24, 25 or 27 and HCC development had not been retrievaled. ConclusionsThe MMPs family members (especially MMP-2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 12) play a crucial role in the progression of HCC, including proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Further exploration of the potential intrinsic relation between all members of the MMPs family members and the development of HCC is crucial for predicting HCC metastasis potentiality and prognosis, as well as developing new or improved targeted anti-cancer therapies for HCC.