The UK games industry now has its own official classification in government economic data. New four-digit Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes have been created specifically for video games publishing and development. UKIE, the UK's games trade body, says the change will finally show the sector's real economic scale instead of burying it in generic software categories.
Until now, games companies were lumped in with general software and IT businesses, which made it nearly impossible to measure what the industry actually contributes to the UK economy. The updated SIC codes also include game-specific software work and esports, recognising that the sector spans both creative and tech activity.
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How the Change Came About
UKIE pushed for dedicated SIC codes for years, working with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and partners like Creative PEC. The trade body submitted evidence showing that the lack of proper classifications left policymakers and investors guessing about the sector's size and impact.
The Office for National Statistics reviewed 173 proposals from government departments, businesses, trade organisations, and academics. It accepted 85 of them, with more still under discussion. UKIE noted that the new classifications will produce better industry data, which should lead to smarter policy decisions and more informed investment.
Implications for the UK Games Sector
The new SIC codes make it easier to track UK games development and publishing separately from the rest of the software industry. That means clearer data on revenue, employment, and growth trends. It also covers esports-related work, which has grown significantly but was previously invisible in official statistics.
UKIE says the change recognises the UK games industry as both a creative and technology sector. Better data collection means policymakers, investors, and researchers can finally see the industry's full scope, including newer areas like web3 integration and digital esports platforms.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are SIC codes and why are they important for the UK games industry?
SIC codes classify economic activity in the UK so government and industry can track sector size, value, and growth. Dedicated codes for games mean the industry finally gets measured properly instead of being hidden in broader software stats.
Which areas of the games industry will the new SIC codes cover?
The codes cover video games publishing, video games development, game-specific software work, and esports-related activity.
When will the new SIC codes come into effect?
The changes are part of the 2026 UK Standard Industrial Classification update. The Office for National Statistics is rolling them out gradually as part of official reporting.
How will this affect investment and policy decisions?
More detailed data on the UK games industry means policymakers and investors can make decisions based on real numbers instead of guesswork. They'll understand the sector's economic impact and growth potential more clearly.
Will the changes impact reporting for smaller game studios?
All companies involved in game development, publishing, and related work will be classified under the new SIC codes. That means smaller studios' contributions will show up in official data instead of disappearing into generic categories.
