Stem cell therapy demonstrates significant potential in addressing major refractory diseases. As a key infrastructure for advancing the clinical translation of stem cells and the development of related industries, the establishment and operation of stem cell banks are of crucial importance. This review systematically summarizes the main types, current status, and applications of stem cell banks at home and abroad, focusing on identifying the core challenges confronting the system, and proposes systematic development countermeasures from the aspects of policy supervision, resource sharing, technological innovation and ethical supervision, aiming to provide references for the construction and development of stem cell resource banks in China.