China trademark classification system is based on the NICE classification system and has some modification.

China has developed a sub-classification system for each of the 45 classes.  The goods/services in each class are divided into several subclasses according to their function and/or raw materials and sales channels while services are divided based on their content and target consumers.  Generally goods falling into the same sub classes are considered similar to each other.  Likewise, goods falling in different sub classes are not considered similar.

The sub-classification system not only means that goods/services are further categorized into different sub-classes of the main class heading, but all goods/services applied for have to comply with the goods/services listed in the Chinese Sub-classification Book.  If the goods/services applied for are not specifically listed (i.e “standard terms”) they are likely to be rejected.  Unfortunately, unlike many other countries, this often means selecting goods/services that are “closest” to the specific goods of interest – as the list is somewhat limited.

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