The New International Trademark Classification 2026: Key Takeaways
The thirteenth edition of the Nice Classification entered into force on 1 January 2026. This international classification is the worldwide reference used to designate goods and services for the filing and registration of trademarks. It plays a central role in the protection of distinctive signs by ensuring harmonisation among intellectual property offices.
The Nice Classification is regularly updated in order to adapt to economic, technological and commercial developments. A new edition is published every three years, supplemented by annual updates aimed at clarifying, refining or reorganising certain categories of goods and services. The 2026 edition forms part of this ongoing process of modernisation.
Accordingly, the new classification introduces, among other things,services related to artificial intelligence in Class 42, as well as services for reserving access to airport lounges in Class 43.
In practical terms, the thirteenth edition applies:
- to all new trademark applications received by the Offices of origin as from 1 January 2026;
- to any application received by WIPO as from the same date, after expiry of the two-month time limit provided for in Article 3(4) of the Madrid Protocol.
It is important to emphasise that international trademark registrations already in force, with a date prior to 1 January 2026, will not be subject to automatic reclassification. Their scope of protection therefore remains unchanged from a classification perspective.
For applicants, this new edition requires increased care when drafting specifications of goods and services, in order to ensure appropriate protection that complies with current requirements. Professional assistance may prove valuable in securing trademark filings and anticipating future developments in the classification system.
The new edition also calls for particular vigilance when conducting trademark searches and monitoring, as certain goods or services have been assigned to new classes. For example:
- “Optical products (spectacles, sunglasses, contact lenses, frames, cases, etc.)” have been transferred from Class 9 to Class 10, which covers medical apparatus and instruments;
- “Emergency and rescue vehicles (fire engines, fireboats, lifeboats, rescue rafts, etc.)” have been transferred from Class 9 to Class 12 (vehicles);
- etc.
The issue is therefore a sensitive one. If you require support, attentive guidance, and profesionnals who understand the impact of trademark classification on your business, our IP attorneys and lawyers will be key contacts. You may reach them at the following address: contact@alatis.eu.
