International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) is the highest-level international mathematical olympiad in the world, and it is also the highest-level mathematical competition for middle school students in the world, which originated from the Soviet Union in 1950s. 1959, the first international maritime organization was held in Romania, attracting 30 participants from 10 countries. Since then, IMO has become one of the most influential mathematics competitions in the world, attracting thousands of students from all over the world every year.

IMO topics are usually very difficult and innovative, aiming at stimulating students' interest and enthusiasm in mathematics and cultivating students' logical thinking, problem-solving ability and teamwork spirit. IMO's topics cover algebra, geometry, combination and many other mathematical fields, including pure mathematical problems and practical problems closely related to real life problems.

With the development of IMO, more and more countries and regions begin to attach importance to mathematics education, and take IMO as an important way to select and train outstanding mathematics talents. Many countries have set up similar mathematics competitions, such as American Mathematics Competition (AMC) in the United States and British Mathematics Solympiad (BMO) in the United Kingdom.

At home, since 1985, Chinese players have made great achievements in international mathematics competitions and won the first place in the total score of the group for many times. These achievements can't be achieved without the great attention and strong support of the China Municipal Government for mathematics education. In recent years, China has also actively promoted international exchanges and cooperation in mathematics education, and held a series of high-level mathematics competitions and activities, providing a platform for global mathematics lovers to display their talents and exchange academic knowledge.