13th Edition Nice Classification (2025-26): Trademark Class Guide for India

The 13th edition Nice classification India 2025 has brought new updates to trademark classes, helping businesses, startups, and professionals align their brand protection strategies with international standards. In India, trademarks play a crucial role in safeguarding intellectual property, and understanding the latest classification ensures that your brand is properly registered and protected. 

This guide will walk you through the importance of the Nice Classification, its latest changes for 2025-26, and how to use it for trademark registration in India.

What is the Nice Classification?

The Nice Classification, established by the Nice Agreement (1957), is an international system used for classifying goods and services when registering trademarks.

  • It organizes goods and services into 45 classes (Classes 1–34 for goods and Classes 35–45 for services).

  • India, as a signatory, follows this system under the Trade Marks Act, 1999.

  • Every few years, the classification is updated to include new technologies, industries, and business models.

Why the 13th Edition Matters (2025-26)

The latest edition is critical because:

  • It reflects modern industries such as AI, renewable energy, fintech, and digital services.

  • Provides clarity for new-age businesses on how to classify their goods or services.

  • Ensures businesses in India stay compliant with global trademark practices.

Key Updates in the 13th Edition

Some important changes introduced in the 13th Edition Nice Classification (2025-26) include:

  1. Technology and AI-related terms

    • Software for artificial intelligence and machine learning now has dedicated classification details.

  2. Sustainability & Green Energy

    • Renewable energy equipment, sustainable packaging, and eco-friendly products are more clearly classified.

  3. Digital & Virtual Goods

    • NFT-related goods, virtual products, and metaverse services have been officially included.

  4. Healthcare & Biotech

    • Updated classes for biotechnology, genetic testing, and medical devices.

Trademark Classes in India 2025

When registering a trademark in India, selecting the right class is crucial. The trademark classes in India 2025 follow the 13th Edition and include:

  • Classes 1–34: For goods (e.g., food, textiles, chemicals, machinery).

  • Classes 35–45: For services (e.g., business consulting, legal, education, IT services).

 Example:

  • A clothing brand must register under Class 25.

  • An IT consultancy should register under Class 42.

Incorrect classification can lead to rejection of applications or weak protection.

Benefits of Using the Nice Classification in India

  • Global Recognition: Ensures trademarks are aligned with international systems.

  • Legal Protection: Prevents disputes and protects your IP rights.

  • Business Expansion: Makes it easier for Indian businesses to expand globally.

  • Clarity & Accuracy: Avoids misclassification issues that may delay trademark approval.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use the Nice Classification for Trademarks in India

Step 1: Identify Your Goods or Services

Prepare a list of every good and service you want to sell under your own name.

Step 2: Match with Correct Class

Use the Nice classification trademark guide India to determine the correct class.

Step 3: Apply for Trademark Registration

Submit your application online at IP India or consult a compliance specialist.

Step 4: Monitor and Maintain

Regularly check for updates in classification to ensure your registration stays valid and relevant.

Common Mistakes Businesses Make

  •  Registering under the wrong class.

  •  Ignoring updates in the Nice Classification.

  •  Not protecting all goods/services offered under the brand.

  •  Assuming Indian classifications differ from global standards 
      .

Why Businesses Should Act Now

With the 13th Edition (2025-26) now in effect, Indian businesses must act quickly to adapt. Startups, MSMEs, NGOs, and corporations can avoid legal disputes and brand misuse by registering correctly under the updated system.

Conclusion

The 13th Edition Nice Classification (2025-26) is a game-changer for businesses in India. By aligning with the updated trademark classification 2025 in India, companies can ensure their intellectual property remains protected both nationally and globally.

For entrepreneurs and brand owners, this is the right time to review your trademark registrations, verify your classes, and take full advantage of the new classification system.

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