How to reduce the adhesion between rubber and plastic molds and the products, and hence construct anti-adhesion surface is one of the development priorities and major tasks for the industry. In this paper, on the basis of fundamental theories, the development progress of the anti-adhesion performance of mold surface is reviewed. The preparation of anti-adhesion surface on metal is also introduced in terms of surface roughness, surface functional layer and the surface microstructure. This paper emphasizes the preparation methods of laser/plasma etching, anodization, electrochemical deposition, chemical/electrochemical etching, physical/chemical deposition, template, composite, etc. Furthermore, the problems about fabrication of anti-adhesion surfaces on metal substrates are provided. Finally, the future development in the preparation of anti adhesion surface is prospected.