ALL CHANGE – The Eleventh Edition of the Nice Classification goes live on January 1, 2017

WIPO´s information notice (no. 29/2016) of 24 October 2016 announced that the new edition of The International Classification of goods and services will enter into force on January 1, 2017. The new edition includes a number of changes affecting the class headings even in some very frequent product classes like 3, 18, 28, to mention just a few examples. Service classes remain largely unchanged. Full details of the additions and deletions can be seen here.

The Eleventh Edition will apply to all applications for International Registration received on or after January 1, 2017. In line with standard practice, the reclassification, in accordance with the eleventh edition of the NICE classification, of the goods and services of an International Registration that is the subject of a renewal, subsequent designation or any other change will not be required.

Whilst the EUIPO has yet to issue a formal communication on the point, it is highly likely that, in line with its previous practice in respect of new editions of the Nice Classification, the Office will adopt the eleventh edition at the same time as WIPO and apply it to all EUTM application received on or after January 1, 2017. We will continue to monitor the matter and will issue an update with any further developments.