International Trade Commission (ITC) Investigations
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) conducts “Section 337 investigations,” which most often involve claims regarding intellectual property rights, including allegations of patent, copyright, and trademark infringement or trade secret misappropriation. Other forms of unfair competition may also be asserted. The primary remedy available in Section 337 investigations is an exclusion order that directs Customs to stop infringing imports from entering the United States. In addition, the Commission may issue cease and desist orders against named importers and other persons. Section 337 investigations, which are conducted pursuant to 19 U.S.C. § 1337 and the Administrative Procedure Act, include trial proceedings before administrative law judges and review by the Commission.
Section 337 Intellectual Property Rights FAQs
Trade Remedy Assistance Program provides small businesses and other small entities with general information on specific U.S. trade laws and provides technical assistance to eligible small entities seeking relief under the trade laws. The program was established to provide information and assistance to eligible small businesses, small trade associations, and small worker organizations.
Users can find information about and track unfair import investigations brought under section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (section 337 investigations) here.