The mahogany shoot borers (Hypsipyla spp.) are among the most economically important insect pests in tropical forestry, virtually preventing the cultivation of mahoganies (Swietenia spp., Khaya spp. etc.) in their native areas. Attack results in destruction of the apical shoot, causing deformation or branching of the tree, and significantly reducing the economic value of the timber. Although mahogany shoot borers have been intensively investigated from an entomological standpoint, no consistently effective control methods currently exist. This review describes those aspects of previous research relevant to the development of control methods, firstly by providing background information on the behaviour of both the hosts and the pests. Three main control methods are then considered: silvicultural, chemical and biological. Examples of investigations where some degree of control has been achieved are highlighted, and the prospects for selecting for resistance are discussed. On the basis of previous experience, it is suggested that an integrated method of pest management might be achieved by the incorporation of pest resistant planting stock in silvicultural systems which encourage natural biological control.