India’s print-on-demand market is growing rapidly, but with opportunity comes responsibility. Whether you’re an independent creator or an emerging brand, understanding the legal and tax framework around print-on-demand is essential to operate safely and build long-term credibility.
From GST registration to intellectual property laws, here’s what every print-on-demand entrepreneur in India should know — and how Merch Factory helps make compliance simpler.
1. Understanding GST and Tax Requirements
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a value-added tax applied to most goods and services sold in India. Any business involved in the sale of goods — including custom-printed products — is generally required to register for GST once their annual turnover crosses the prescribed threshold (₹40 lakh for most states).
Having a GST number allows you to:
- Legally operate your business and issue invoices
- Claim input tax credit on your purchases
- Avoid penalties and compliance issues
If you’re starting a print-on-demand brand, it’s strongly recommended to obtain a GST registration early — even before hitting the turnover threshold — as it adds legitimacy and simplifies B2B transactions.
Note: When a GST number is not provided by a merchant, Merch Factory bills such orders under an “unregistered party” category as per Indian tax laws. This ensures full transparency and compliance for both sides.
Registering for GST is a straightforward process via the official GST portal, or you can take help from a certified GST practitioner.
At Merch Factory, we understand how confusing this process can feel, especially for new creators. That’s why our support team offers hands-on guidance through the in-app live chat — helping you register, update your details, and manage tax documentation correctly.
2. Protecting Your Designs with Intellectual Property Laws
The other crucial part of print-on-demand compliance is intellectual property (IP) protection. IP laws safeguard the rights of original creators — covering everything from logos and illustrations to slogans and artwork.
In India, the key laws governing this area are:
- The Copyright Act, 1957 – protects original artistic works such as designs, graphics, and illustrations.
- The Trademarks Act, 1999 – protects brand names, logos, and distinctive marks.
As a print-on-demand seller, you must ensure that:
- You only use designs that you own or have permission to use.
- You do not upload or sell copyrighted material belonging to others.
- You understand that “inspired” designs can still violate trademark or copyright if they are too similar.
Violating IP laws — even unintentionally — can result in takedowns, legal notices, or financial penalties.
At Merch Factory, we take IP compliance seriously. Every uploaded design is reviewed by our team under strict intellectual property guidelines before it goes live for printing. This helps maintain brand integrity and protects both creators and customers from potential disputes.
3. Staying Compliant, Building Credibility
Complying with India’s tax and IP laws doesn’t just keep you safe — it strengthens your brand’s credibility. Customers are far more likely to trust and reorder from stores that operate transparently and legally.
As India’s print-on-demand ecosystem matures, regulatory frameworks will continue to evolve. Merch Factory’s goal is to ensure creators stay ahead of these changes — through tools, education, and support.
Conclusion
The legal side of running a print-on-demand business in India might seem complex at first, but it’s entirely manageable with the right understanding and support.
By obtaining a GST number, following IP laws, and partnering with trusted platforms like Merch Factory, creators can focus on what truly matters — designing, selling, and scaling their brands.
With compliance handled seamlessly in the background, your business stays ready for growth in India’s fast-evolving creator economy.