The Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata(Weidemann), is one of most widespread and damaging pests in the world. The study was carried out to assess its invasion risk and formulate specific quarantine measures in China. Seven variables including temperature and humidity were selected for the ecological niche model. MaxEnt model was employed to simulate potential geographical distribution of C. capitata based on its global distribution and to evaluate its invasion risk according to its quantity intercepted and captured in ports and the distribution of its hosts. The results showed that the suitable distribution areas of C. capitata were mainly in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Suitable distribution area of C. capitata in China was mainly in the southern region. Neighboring countries of China, including Vietnam, Laos, Burma, India, Bhutan and Nepal, are suitable for the colonization of C. capitata. The pest was intercepted every year and total intercepted times were 274 in 2003 2015. Its major hosts, including Malus pumila Mill., coffee, Cydonia oblonga Mill and Ficus carica L., were widely planted in suitable distribution areas. Therefore, the pest has ability to be introduced and spread in China. Corresponding quarantine and surveillance measures should be taken to prevent invasion risk of C. capitata.