Trade associations，a form of association within a market economy，are NGOs formed by market-actor enterprises based on commonalities of economy and interests，and which have characteristics of communities（共同体）. Based on definitions of the concept，properties and characteristics of trade associations，this article reviews their development starting from feudal society’s guilds（行会）to modern society’s trade councils（同业公会）and，finally，to trade associations（行业协会）. Their development is summarized quantitatively，and qualitatively，in terms of systems and structures. The three primary functions of representation，coordination，and service are analyzed，as are their economic，political and social roles. The structure of and improvements to their governance are analyzed，as are the the state of and innovations to their management systems. Finally，legislative aspects are analyzed and policy recommendations presented.