29 May 2026

Serbia Adopts 13th Edition of Nice Classification

On 1 January 2026, the 13th edition (2026) of the International Nice Classification of goods and services entered into force in Serbia. All trade mark applications filed from that date are classified under this new edition; the changes do not apply retroactively.

The new edition introduces the addition and reclassification of certain goods and services. The amendments aim to align the Nice Classification with evolving market needs and technological innovations, while defining existing terms with greater precision and clarity.

Key changes in the classification of goods include the following:

  • Essential oils are now classified according to their intended purpose: those used in manufacturing are classified in Class 1, those used for perfuming remain in Class 3 together with perfumes, while those intended for medical use fall under Class 5. Food flavourings are now classified in Class 30, although essential oils were previously often classified in Class 3).
  • Corrective eyewear, sunglasses, and contact lenses, as optical products, have been moved from Class 9 to Class 10 to reflect their medical and therapeutic use. However, smart glasses remain in Class 9, as they are considered electronic and technological products.
  • Emergency and rescue vehicles: fire engines, fireboats, and lifeboats have been moved from Class 9 to Class 12, as they are considered to fall within the broader category of vehicles.
  • Clutch linings have been removed from Class 17 and will now be classified depending on their use – those for land vehicles fall under Class 12, or, while others are placed in Class 7.
  • Certain personal care products, such as electric toothbrushes, have been moved from Class 10 to Class 21.
  • Parasols are now classified according to type: hand-held parasols and umbrellas fall under Class 18, while patio/terrace parasols have been added to Class 22.
  • Electrically heated clothing that is not intended to protect against accidents or injuries, and is not for medical purposes, has been moved from Class 11 to Class 25, according to the essential nature of the goods (clothing).
  • Yoga equipment has been classified according to its nature: yoga and meditation cushions are listed in Class 20, yoga gloves are listed in Class 25, meditation mats are classified in Class 27, and yoga blocks are placed in Class 28.

Changes to service classes include the following:

  • Artificial Intelligence as a Service (AIaaS) has been included as a new entry in Class 42;
  • Booking and arranging access to airport lounges is a new service included in Class 43; and
  • Rental of spectacles and sunglasses is now classified solely under Class 44.

When examining new trade mark applications, it is necessary to consider the recent amendments and search for the relevant goods/services in their newly allocated classes, while also reviewing their previous classifications to ensure a more comprehensive assessment.

For more information, please contact:

Serbia NEWS

Eastern Europe NEWS

Trademarks NEWS