USITC Terminates Investigation Into Composite Intermediate Bulk Containers for Most Respondents, Seeks Comments On Relief Against Remaining Defaulted Firm
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The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has closed its investigation against three companies involved in importing certain composite intermediate bulk containers. The companies—Shanghai Sakura Plastic Products Co., Ltd. (also called Shanghai Yinghua Plastic Products Co., Ltd.), Shandong Jinshan Jieyuan Container Co., Ltd., and Zibo Jielin Plastic Pipe Manufacture Co. Ltd.—were removed from the investigation after agreeing to settlement terms and consent orders. Each company is based in China.
The decision follows three unopposed motions for termination, which were granted by the Chief Administrative Law Judge on December 8, 2025. No party objected to these orders. As a result, the USITC issued consent orders to these companies, and has ended the investigation for them.
The investigation originally started on January 27, 2025, after a complaint was filed by Schütz Container Systems, Inc. of New Jersey and Protechna S.A. of Switzerland. The complaint alleged patent violations related to bulk containers. Several U.S. patents were named in the complaint.
Hebei Shijiheng Plastics, Co., Ltd., also from China, was another respondent in the investigation. This company did not respond to the complaint and was found in default on July 7, 2025.
The USITC is now focusing only on Hebei Shijiheng. The Commission is inviting written comments from the public, complainants, and government agencies. The Commission requests detailed comments on what remedies should be applied against the defaulted company, Hebei Shijiheng. This may include an order to stop the company’s goods from entering the United States, or a requirement to stop certain unfair business activities.
The USITC also wants information on how any order might affect public health, U.S. consumers, competition in the U.S., and similar products made in America. The public and interested parties are encouraged to share their opinions on these subjects.
If a remedy is issued, the US Trade Representative has 60 days to approve, disapprove, or take no action. During this time, the accused products may still enter the country, but a bond may be required. Comments about the bond amount are also requested.
Written submissions must be sent electronically by January 9, 2026. Reply submissions are due by January 16, 2026. Submissions should clearly list the investigation number 337-TA-1434. Guidelines and rules for submitting confidential documents are also provided by the Commission.
This decision was made by Commission vote on December 22, 2025. The USITC’s authority for this decision is based on section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 and the Commission’s rules.
For more details or to view non-confidential documents, visit the Commission’s electronic docket system at https://edis.usitc.gov.
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