This document provides an introduction and overview of the Central Product Classification (CPC) Version 1.1. It discusses the historical background of the CPC, including its origins in the 1970s from initiatives to harmonize international classifications. It describes the development process of the CPC over several decades, with input from experts and organizations worldwide. The document outlines the purpose, principles, structure, correspondence to other systems, and application of the CPC for classifying goods and services in economic and trade statistics.