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ZENODO
Article . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: ZENODO
ZENODO
Article . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Article . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Non-Traditional Trademarks in the Digital Economy

Authors: Yusuf Gunawan;

Non-Traditional Trademarks in the Digital Economy

Abstract

The digital transformation of markets has accelerated the expansion of trademark subject matter beyond traditional word and logo marks to include sound, color, motion, shape, and scent. While international instruments such as the TRIPS Agreement adopt a flexible definition of trademarks, the doctrinal accommodation of non-traditional marks remains uneven across jurisdictions. This article examines the theoretical foundations, evidentiary burdens, and enforcement complexities associated with non-traditional trademarks. Through comparative doctrinal analysis of United States and European Union jurisprudence including Qualitex, Sieckmann, and Shield Mark this study identifies structural tensions between distinctiveness, non-functionality, and competition policy. It argues that the expansion of trademark subject matter risks over prophetization unless disciplined by rigorous evidentiary standards. Focusing on Indonesia as a representative emerging jurisdiction, the article demonstrates that regulatory ambiguity undermines legal certainty in digital markets. It proposes a five-step structured distinctiveness and representability model integrating consumer perception, technical objectivity, and competition safeguards. The article contributes to global trademark scholarship by offering a calibrated reform framework balancing innovation and market freedom.

Keywords

non-traditional trademarks, digital economy, distinctiveness, non-functionality, competition policy, emerging jurisdictions

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average