Conventional machining of polymeric composite materials is often both tech nically and economically less effective because the structural characteristics inherent in fibre reinforcement promote excessive tool wear. In recent years, abrasive waterjet machining (AWJM) has been proving to be successful in the machining of such materials. This paper presents a state of the art review of research in AWJM of polymeric composite materials. Among the main topics discussed are mechanisms of material removal, productivity and surface quality.