JIT Intellectual Property: What is the reclassification system for Japanese trademarks?

There are five classification systems in Japan, including the International Goods and Services Classification System introduced on April 1, 1992.

The Japan Patent Office requires that goods in old classifications be reclassified according to international classifications within a certain period of time. Therefore, the owner of a trademark registration registered under the Japanese classification system must make a request to reclassify the designated goods in accordance with the current international classification system within six months from the expiration date of the Japanese trademark registration period. Registration is valid until one year after expiration. The Japan Patent Office will notify the owner of the trademark registration during this period. Reclassification is not mandatory. However, if reclassification is not performed within this period, the next renewal application will be rejected.