North American Industry Classification System

The North American Industry Classification System or NAICS (/nks/)[1] is a classification of business establishments by type of economic activity (the process of production). It is used by governments and business in Canada, Mexico, and the United States of America. It has largely replaced the older Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) system, except in some government agencies, such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

An establishment is typically a single physical location, though administratively distinct operations at a single location may be treated as separate establishments. Each establishment is classified as an industry according to the primary business activity taking place there. NAICS does not offer guidance on organizing enterprises (companies) composed of multiple establishments.

  1. ^ "North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)". www.census.gov. Special Projects Staff, Service Sector Statistics Division. Archived from the original on March 5, 2019. Retrieved 2016-12-24. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS, pronounced Nakes)