Abstract: For varieties that are controversial in distinctiveness, molecular markers are able to be employed as a supplementary means to identify distinctiveness. For lawsuit cases disputed over authorization of new varieties, the courts can use evidences provided by molecular markers to make judgments. There is a bright future of molecular marker application in determining distinctiveness of plant varieties, particularly for vegetatively propagated clonal plant varieties. Molecular markers would also be used to identify Essentially Derived Varieties once UPOV 1991 Act is implemented.

Key words: molecular marker, protection of new varieties of plants, identification of plant varieties