Trademark protection is not all-encompassing; it must be attached to specific goods or services (Nice Classification). Precise "land-marking" is the key to determining the value and stability of a trademark.

1. The "Dependency" Constraint in International Applications This is a major limitation of the Madrid System: the scope of goods in an international application must not exceed the scope of the basic application (home country filing).

• The Shrinking Dilemma: If your basic case in China only covers "Cosmetics," your international application cannot include "Beauty Salon Services."
• National Flexibility: Individual filings have no such constraint. You can flexibly apply for "Software" in the U.S. and "Consulting" in Germany, with each scope independent of the others.

2. "Localization" of Product Descriptions While most countries follow the Nice Classification, specific requirements for terminology vary significantly.

• USA (USPTO): Requirements are extremely precise and detailed. Generic terms commonly used in international applications (e.g., "Computer Programs") will almost certainly trigger an Office Action in the U.S.
• China (CNIPA): Uses a unique "Sub-class" system. If your international application includes items that don't match the Chinese standard terminology, examiners may misclassify them, creating gaps in your protection.
• National Advantage: Local attorneys draft items based on the "Pre-approved Lists" of their respective offices, minimizing refusal risks and maximizing protection scope.

3. Balancing "Standard" vs. "Non-Standard" Items

• International Route: To satisfy multiple countries, applicants tend to use standardized WIPO terminology. While convenient, it may not fully cover a brand’s most competitive niche products.
• National Route: Allows attorneys to argue for "non-standard but commercially valuable" descriptions based on local practice, achieving "tailor-made" protection.

Summary Advice If your products are standardized and straightforward (e.g., clothing), the Madrid System is sufficient. However, if your business is diverse and complex (e.g., a tech firm combining hardware, software, and data services), we recommend National Applications for core markets to ensure precise "land-marking" and avoid restricted rights due to improper descriptions.