Abstract: In this paper, the progress made by researchers in improving the thermal conductivity of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites in the past decade is summarized. Based on the principle of thermal conductivity of polymer composites, this paper focuses on the analysis of the influence of carbon fiber (CFs) on the thermal conductivity of CFRP composites, including content, length, and orientation. In addition, four methods to improve the thermal conductivity of CFRP composites are summarized, including surface modification of CFs, directional treatment of CFs, adding thermal conductive fillers and designing three-dimensional continuous thermal channels, which have an impact on the thermal conductivity of CFRP composites. Finally, the prospect of carbon fibers arranged in the same direction and combined with high thermal conductivity fillers with different shapes and sizes to construct continuous thermal conduction channels is prospected. The preparation of CFRP composites with low filling content and high thermal conductivity will become the research direction in the future, which will provide guidance for the development and optimization of the next generation of thermal conductivity materials.