Bahrain to Implement Locarno Classification for Industrial Designs from 29 October 2026
Bahrain will begin applying the Locarno International Classification for Industrial Designs on 29 October 2026, coinciding with the entry into force of the Locarno Agreement for the Kingdom. WIPO confirms that Bahrain deposited its instrument of accession on 29 July 2026.
According to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s announcement dated 22 October 2026, the classification will apply to industrial design applications filed on or after 29 October 2026 through Bahrain’s Industrial Property Online Services Portal.
What Is the Locarno Classification?
The Locarno Classification is an international system used to classify products to which industrial designs relate. It organizes products into classes and subclasses, providing a common framework for industrial design registration.
Bahrain’s adoption of this framework is intended to promote consistency in classification and facilitate the search, examination, and registration of industrial designs, as outlined in the Ministry’s announcement.
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
Businesses, designers, and IP owners preparing new industrial design applications in Bahrain should review the relevant product classification before filing.
For applications submitted from 29 October 2026, applicants and their representatives should:
- Identify the appropriate Locarno class and subclass for the relevant product.
- Ensure that the product description corresponds to the selected classification.
- Reflect the classification in applications submitted through Bahrain’s electronic filing portal.
Reviewing these details during application preparation can help applicants address classification questions before submission.
Does Classification Change the Scope of Protection?
The Locarno Agreement establishes an administrative classification framework. It does not determine the nature or scope of industrial design protection available in each contracting country. Applicants should therefore continue to assess the requirements for protection under Bahrain’s applicable laws.
Planning to Register an Industrial Design in Bahrain?
Alyafi IP Group assists businesses and designers with industrial design protection in Bahrain, including classification guidance, application preparation, filing, and prosecution.
Contact our Bahrain team at bahrain@alyafi-ip.com to discuss your design and prepare your application under the Locarno Classification.
