The Intellectual Property Department (IPD) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region announces that the 13th edition of the International Classification of Goods and Services for the Purposes of the Registration of Marks (Nice Classification) will come into effect in Hong Kong on 1 January 2026.

The updated classification, maintained by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), introduces significant revisions to reflect evolving market trends, technological advancements, and commercial practices. Key changes in the 13th edition include:

What revisions are to be made by the 13th edition? Here are the keys changes and examples:

1. Revisions concerning essential oils

Classification of “essential oils” according to their function or purpose

2. Addition of new indications

3. Deletion of indications

4. Change of indications

5. Transfer of indications

6. Change and transfer of indications

7. Addition, deletion, change, change and transfer of indications

Clutch linings

• Addition of “clutch linings, other than for land vehicles” in Class 7

• Addition of “clutch linings for land vehicles” in Class 12

• Deletion of “clutch linings” from Class 17

8. Changes to class headings and explanatory notes

Class headings

• Class 3: Replace “perfumery, essential oils” with “perfumes”

• Class 10: Add “spectacles, contact lenses and sunglasses” 

How will the 13th edition affect the Registry’s cross search list?

The adoption of the 13th edition will affect the classification of goods and services in trademark applications filed in Hong Kong on or after 1 January 2026. Applicants must ensure their submissions follow the new classification guidelines.

Existing trademark registrations classified under previous editions of the Nice Classification may be subject to reclassification procedures to align with the 13th edition. The IPD will notify affected registration owners and follow established procedures for any objections.

The IPD encourages trademark applicants, owners, and practitioners to familiarise themselves with the upcoming changes to ensure a smooth transition and compliance with the updated classification system.

For more details, you can click here to view: 

https://www.ipd.gov.hk/filemanager/ipd/en/content_3/Workshop%20on%20NCL%20(13-2026).pdf