
What is a Trademark?
A trademark is a unique symbol, word, design, or combination of these that identifies and distinguishes the goods or services of one entity from those of others. It serves as an indicator of the source, ensuring authenticity and protecting the brand’s reputation in the market. Trademarks provide legal protection and help build brand identity, making them a valuable asset for businesses.
What is a Trademark Class?
Trademark classification is a system used to categorize goods and services into specific groups, referred to as Trademark Classes. Each class represents a distinct category of goods or services, helping businesses specify the scope of their trademark protection. In India, trademark classification follows the Nice Classification (NCL) system, an internationally accepted framework.


What is the NICE Classification of Goods and Services?
The Nice Classification (NCL) is an internationally recognized system established by the Nice Agreement (1957). It classifies goods and services into 45 classes:
- Classes 1–34 cover goods.
- Classes 35–45 cover services.
Detailed Breakdown of Trademark Classes in India (1 to 45)
Class | Description |
---|---|
Class 1 | Chemicals used in industry, science, and agriculture, including adhesives and unprocessed plastics. |
Class 2 | Paints, varnishes, lacquers, preservatives against rust, and wood deterioration. |
Class 3 | Cosmetics, cleaning products, perfumes, soaps, and other personal care products. |
Class 4 | Industrial oils, greases, fuels, and illuminants (e.g., candles, lubricants). |
Class 5 | Pharmaceuticals, medical preparations, dietary supplements, and sanitary products. |
Class 6 | Common metals and their alloys, metal building materials, and small hardware. |
Class 7 | Machines and machine tools, including motors, engines, and agricultural implements. |
Class 8 | Hand tools, cutlery, razors, and related implements. |
Class 9 | Scientific instruments, computers, software, electronics, and audio-visual equipment. |
Class 10 | Surgical, medical, dental, and veterinary instruments and apparatus. |
Class 11 | Apparatus for lighting, heating, cooking, cooling, drying, and water supply. |
Class 12 | Vehicles and apparatus for transport by land, air, or water. |
Class 13 | Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and fireworks. |
Class 14 | Precious metals, jewelry, timepieces, and related goods. |
Class 15 | Musical instruments and their accessories. |
Class 16 | Paper, printed matter, stationery, office supplies, and teaching materials. |
Class 17 | Rubber, plastics, insulation materials, and packing materials. |
Class 18 | Leather goods, luggage, bags, wallets, and umbrellas. |
Class 19 | Building materials (non-metallic), including glass, clay, and wood. |
Class 20 | Furniture, mirrors, picture frames, and goods made of wood or plastic. |
Class 21 | Household or kitchen utensils, glassware, and porcelain. |
Class 22 | Ropes, strings, nets, tents, and raw textile fibers. |
Class 23 | Yarns and threads for textile use. |
Class 24 | Textiles and textile goods, such as bed covers and tablecloths. |
Class 25 | Clothing, footwear, and headgear. |
Class 26 | Lace, ribbons, buttons, and other haberdashery. |
Class 27 | Carpets, rugs, mats, and floor coverings. |
Class 28 | Games, toys, sporting goods, and decorations for Christmas trees. |
Class 29 | Meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, and preserved or dried foods. |
Class 30 | Coffee, tea, sugar, rice, pasta, and confectionery. |
Class 31 | Agricultural products, fresh fruits and vegetables, and live animals. |
Class 32 | Beers, non-alcoholic beverages, and mineral waters. |
Class 33 | Alcoholic beverages (excluding beer). |
Class 34 | Tobacco, smoking accessories, and matches. |
Class 35 | Advertising, business management, and office functions. |
Class 36 | Financial and insurance services, including real estate. |
Class 37 | Building construction, repair, and installation services. |
Class 38 | Telecommunications services. |
Class 39 | Transport, packaging, and storage of goods, and travel arrangements. |
Class 40 | Treatment of materials (e.g., tailoring, processing services). |
Class 41 | Education, training, entertainment, and cultural activities. |
Class 42 | Scientific and technological services, IT services, and software development. |
Class 43 | Hospitality services, including providing food, drinks, and accommodations. |
Class 44 | Medical, beauty, and agricultural services. |
Class 45 | Legal services, security services, and personal and social services. |