Abstract: Competitive intelligence (CI) is one of four basic elements for the present-day enterprise for exist and development, but its definitions have not been generally accepted as yet, which inhibits the development and application of CI in China. The new definition of CI is presented based on the classic case in the field of CI and “Terminology work-Principles and methods” (GB/T 10112—1999). CI is the method in integrating the collection and analysis of information for competitor to make policy. CI contains many methods of collection and analysis of information and all methods should be proper and legitimate.

Key words: competitive intelligence, information, intelligence