This invention discloses high-efficiency method and apparatus for continuously producing carbon nanotubes. The apparatus is a multi-stage counter-current reaction apparatus. The method comprises: placing the catalyst in the pre-reactor or the main reactor, introducing mixed gases of H2 or CO, and N2 or Ar, reducing, then introducing raw material gas, reacting to obtain carbon nanotubes, and sending the expanded solid raw material to the next stage reactor for reaction. The gas flow and the solid raw material are arranged in counter-current contact mode in the reactors, which can increase the conversion rate of the solid raw material. This invention has such advantages as simple apparatus and easy operation, and is suitable for industrial production on the scale of tens of thousands of tons per year.