Abstract: The Nanhuan sedimentary manganese deposits in eastern Guizhou and its adjacent areas are most important manganese resources of great exploration potential in China. Referenced to the previous results of research, the present paper gives a detailed overview of current states of research concerning the palaeogeographic environments and their controls on the manganese deposits in eastern Guizhou and its adjacent areas during the early Datangpoan (Nanhuan). The controls of the palaeogeographic environments on the manganese deposits are manifested in origin, migration and enrichment, precipitation, mineralization and diagenesis of the ore-forming matter, with the emphasis on palaeogeography, palaeo-oceanography, palaeontology, sea-level changes, submarine contemporaneous faults and volcanic activities in the study areas during the early Datangpoan.