Abstract: Effective control of atmospheric VOCs, a common precursor of PM_2.5 and O₃, is crucial to the continuous improvement of ambient air quality in China during the ‘14th Five-Year Plan’ period. However, the current management and control of anthropogenic VOCs is relatively weak in China, it is urgent to establish an effective control mechanism for anthropogenic VOCs in China. The USA began to pay attention to the control of anthropogenic VOCs in the 1950s, and has made significant achievements in the past 70 years. Learning from the experience of the USA, in the control of anthropogenic VOCs will be beneficial to promote the control of anthropogenic VOCs in China. This study comprehensively reviews the control processes of anthropogenic VOCs and summarizes the effectiveness and experience of anthropogenic VOCs control in the USA, and proposes recommendations for the control of anthropogenic VOCs in China during the ‘14th Five-Year Plan’ period based on the analysis of the control status and shortcomings of anthropogenic VOCs in China since 2000. The study found that by gradually clarifying the definition of VOCs, recognizing the link between VOCs and O₃ pollution and the connection between VOCs and PM_2.5 pollution, and progressively promoting VOCs control, an effective VOCs control system integrating scientific understanding, technical support, policy support and public participation has been developed in the USA, resulting in remarkable accomplishments in reducing VOCs emissions from anthropogenic sources, and reducing toxic and hazardous pollutants, O₃ and PM_2.5 concentrations. At present, there are deficiencies in the control of anthropogenic VOCs in China in the following areas, such as the control framework, basic support and institutional protection. In order to effectively promote the control of anthropogenic VOCs in China during the ‘14th Five-Year Plan’ period, it is recommended that the following work be strengthened: building a control system, improving basic capabilities, improving system guarantee, promoting innovation and development, and mobilizing public participation.