In this article, we synthesise research on language ideologies and language policies related to minority languages in China published in international journals between 2001 and 2022. We review 73 empirical studies published in English to examine research trends and identify issues in terms of what was studied, how it was studied and what was found. Our review concludes with an agenda for research on minority languages in China to expand understanding of the agency of social actors in language policy and planning in China and similar contexts.