Trademark Class 16 – A Complete Guide for Stationery, Paper Goods, and Publishing Brands in India
Introduction:
From publishers and printing presses to packaging manufacturers and school supply brands, businesses that deal in paper goods, printed matter, and writing instruments need to safeguard their brand identity under Trademark Class 16.
This class includes books, stationery, printing materials, office supplies, teaching materials, packaging paper, and even greeting cards. Whether you’re a publisher, notebook brand, label printer, or paper bag supplier – Class 16 is the legal category that protects your trademark.
This article explains Class 16 in full detail – what’s included, what’s not, examples of successful trademarks, how to file in India under the Trade Marks Act, 1999, international classification via the Madrid Protocol, and expert tips to avoid rejection or confusion.
Legal Basis in India
India follows the Nice Classification (11th edition) under the Trade Marks Act, 1999. Class 16 is defined as:
“Paper and cardboard; printed matter; bookbinding material; photographs; stationery and office requisites, except furniture; adhesives for stationery or household purposes; drawing materials and materials for artists; paintbrushes; instructional and teaching materials; plastic sheets, films and bags for wrapping and packaging.”
This class includes a wide variety of printed and paper-based goods, whether for education, business, decoration, or daily use.
Scope of Trademark Class 16
Who Should File Under Class 16?
- Publishers and book manufacturers
- Notebook and school supply brands
- Stationery and office equipment sellers
- Greeting card makers
- Packaging firms using paper/cardboard
- Marketing material designers (printed)
What Class 16 Covers:
- Books, magazines, newspapers, periodicals
- Notebooks, diaries, planners, calendars
- Stationery – pens, pencils, sharpeners, erasers
- Folders, envelopes, letter pads, files
- Packaging paper, paper bags, gift wraps
- Printed brochures, flyers, pamphlets, manuals
- Labels, stickers, tags (paper-based)
- Educational material, teaching charts
- Paintbrushes and materials for art/drawing
Examples of Products Covered
- Hardbound and paperback books
- Children’s storybooks and activity books
- School notebooks and exercise books
- Office stationery sets (pen, pad, folders)
- Printed envelopes, letterheads, files
- Marketing material: brochures, flyers
- Labels and stickers (branding or packaging)
- Greeting cards, invitations, wedding cards
- Coloring books and drawing paper
- Artist tools – paintbrushes, sketchbooks
- Personal planners and diaries
- Educational charts and posters
- Business cards and printed catalogues
- Gift wraps, tags, printed paper goods
- Financial statements, printed reports
Goods NOT Covered Under Class 16
| Item | Correct Class |
|---|---|
| E-books or digital publications | Class 9 |
| Printing services/design studios | Class 40 / 42 |
| Office furniture | Class 20 |
| Advertising & marketing services | Class 35 |
| Paper used in medical/hygiene products | Class 5 |
| Paper-based toys (e.g., origami kits) | Class 28 |
| Plastic packaging not used for wrapping | Class 17 |
| Publishing as a service | Class 41 |
Real-World Trademark Examples (India)
| Brand | Trademark Class 16 Products |
|---|---|
| NAVNEET | Notebooks, drawing books, school supplies |
| CAMLIN | Stationery, sketchbooks, paintbrushes |
| ITC CLASSMATE | Notebooks, pens, school materials |
| OXFORD | Diaries, planners, writing pads |
| KOKUYO | Office stationery and organizers |
| ZOOP | Greeting cards, gift wraps |
| HIMALAYA PUBLICATIONS | Educational books |
| FEVICOL | Adhesives for stationery |
Why Filing Under Class 16 Matters
- Protects against counterfeit or copycat brands
- Secures your identity on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart
- Boosts credibility for bulk orders (schools/corporates)
- Enables licensing, franchising, brand expansion
- Prevents unauthorized use of printed logos or designs
Trademark Registration Process in India – Class 16
- Search: Use IP India Public Search (Class 16)
- Form TM-A: Mention product details like “notebooks, labels”
- Online Filing: Submit via IP India E-filing Portal
- Examination: Registrar checks for Section 9/11 objections
- Publication: Appears in Journal for 4 months if accepted
- Registration: Valid for 10 years, renewable
Documents Required:
- Applicant’s Aadhaar/PAN
- MSME or Udyam registration (optional)
- Logo (if applying as device mark)
- TM-48 (if filing through agent)
- Catalogue/product list (if available)
International Filing via Madrid Protocol
If you export paper-based goods, register your trademark internationally:
| Jurisdiction | Trademark Class |
|---|---|
| India | Class 16 |
| USA (USPTO) | Class 016 |
| EU (EUIPO) | Class 16 |
| UK (IPO) | Class 16 |
| WIPO (Madrid) | Class 16 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing e-books here (Class 9 instead)
- Using vague terms like “stationery” – be specific
- Filing services like printing/design – use Class 40/42
- Overlooking existing similar trademarks
Top Tips for Class 16 Applicants
- Include every product in your trademark description
- If selling pens/pencils under your brand – include them
- Use Class 17 or 20 for plastic/furniture packaging
- For international sales – register via Madrid Protocol
- Launching a publishing label? Dual file Class 16 + 41
FAQs – Trademark Class 16
- Q1. Are e-books part of Class 16?
- No. They fall under Class 9.
- Q2. Is paper packaging part of Class 16?
- Yes, if made of paper or cardboard.
- Q3. Are pens and pencils part of Class 16?
- Yes.
- Q4. What about Fevicol?
- Yes, if labeled for stationery/home use.
- Q5. Offset printing service?
- No. That’s Class 40.
- Q6. Can I protect my notebook brand?
- Yes.
- Q7. Class for diaries and planners?
- Class 16.
- Q8. Printed invitation cards?
- Yes, included.
- Q9. Drawing books with branding?
- Yes.
- Q10. Digital printable files?
- No, covered under Class 9.
Conclusion
Trademark Class 16 is essential for Indian brands in stationery, publishing, paper packaging, and printed media. It offers brand protection, credibility, and expansion opportunities.
Whether you’re a notebook brand, greeting card designer, or packaging firm – Class 16 is your legal shield.
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