Notice on the Implementation of the Latest International Patent Classification (Version 2026.01)

To ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of the International Patent Classification (IPC) numbers for Chinese patent documents, the National Intellectual Property Administration will commence using IPC (2026.01 Edition) for classifying and announcing Chinese patent documents as of January 1, 2026.

Compared with IPC (2025.01 Edition), a total of 1,615 classification numbers have been revised in the new edition, including 517 newly - added classification numbers and 206 deleted ones.

To facilitate the learning and utilization of the new edition of IPC, the National Intellectual Property Administration has translated and produced relevant materials for IPC (2026.01 Edition), such as the IPC Classification Table, classification definitions, and a comparison table between the old and new versions. These materials can be obtained through the official website of the National Intellectual Property Administration.

Website: https://www.cnipa.gov.cn/col/col3161/index.html

This notice is hereby issued.

National Intellectual Property Administration 
December 31, 2025