This paper briefly introduces the properties, characteristics and current situation of nickel resources, analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of three pyrometallurgical processes of laterite nickel ore rotary kiln electric furnace reduction smelting, reduction roasting magnetic separation and reduction vulcanization smelting, as well as wet processes such as atmospheric pressure acid leaching and high pressure acid leaching, and points out the application of biological leaching in laterite nickel ore treatment. The improvement and development of metallurgical process of laterite nickel ore in the future are discussed. It is pointed out that hydrometallurgy of laterite nickel ore will play an important role in the future.