Background: The rapid emergence of the metaverse as an immersive digital ecosystem has transformed the way trademarks are used, replicated, and commercially exploited, raising complex legal questions concerning virtual goods, NFTs, avatar-based branding, and decentralized marketplaces. Objective: This study examines the adequacy of existing trademark law, particularly under the Indian Trademarks Act, 1999, in addressing metaverse-related disputes while contextualizing the analysis within international frameworks such as TRIPS and comparative jurisprudence from the US and the European union. Methodology: A doctrinal and analytical research methodology has been employed, supported by comparative case law evaluation and policy analysis of intermediary liability and cross-border enforcement mechanisms. Findings: The research establishes that traditional trademark principles remain conceptually adaptable but operationally insufficient due to jurisdictional uncertainty, regulatory gaps, and enforcement challenges in decentralized digital environments. The study further identifies intermediary governance and international cooperation as critical determinants of effective protection. Conclusion: The dissertation concludes that calibrated legislative reform, structured platform accountability, modernization of digital evidence standards, and harmonized international coordination are essential to ensure that trademark law continues to safeguard goodwill and consumer trust within immersive digital economies.
Raj et al. (2026) studied this question.