Abstract: The modular multilevel matrix converter（M3C） has outstanding advantages in wind power generation, which can realize AC/AC conversion from low-frequency alternating current to power-frequency alternating current. In order to solve the problems of too many adjustment parameters and high harmonic contents of proportional-integral（PI） control, this paper analyzes the passivity and stability of the input-side mathematical model of M3C based on the passivity-based control theory, and proposes its passivity-based control strategy. Through the modeling and simulation in MATLAB/Simulink, the correctness and superiority of the proposed passivity-based control strategy are verified. When the input-side frequency and the output-side load change, the operation of M3 C with variable frequency and load are realized through the passivity-based control strategy. Compared with PI control, the proposed passivity-based control has faster response, less adjustment parameters, lower harmonic content, and its overall control effect is better.