Starch-contg. raw materials, technols. for EtOH prodn., methods for preliminary prepn. of raw materials and enzymic formulations used were reviewed. New processes (simultaneous fermn. and saccharification, use of new enzymes, high gravity technol., up to 35%, osmo- and EtOH-tolerant microorganisms fermn. with recirculation of stillage fermn. of cellulose) were also outlined. Immobilization of microrganisms and their genetic modification were also taken into consideration.