U.S. International Trade Commission Begins Investigation into Semiconductor Devices
Estimated reading time: 3–5 minutes
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has started an investigation. It focuses on certain semiconductor devices. These devices include products and components containing such devices.
The investigation started because of a complaint. GlobalFoundries U.S. Inc. from Malta, New York, filed the complaint. They filed it on March 26, 2026. There was also a supplement filed on April 1, 2026.
The complaint says that there are violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930. It talks about importing, selling for importation, and selling within the U.S. after import. The complaint says this happened because of patent infringements.
Patents involved are U.S. Patent No. 8,330,235, U.S. Patent No. 8,507,983, U.S. Patent No. 9,093,425, U.S. Patent No. 9,865,546, U.S. Patent No. 10,062,748, and U.S. Patent No. 10,707,167. These are often called the ‘235, ‘983, ‘425, ‘546, ‘748, and ‘167 patents.
GlobalFoundries wants the Commission to investigate. They also ask for a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders.
The full complaint is available. Except for any confidential information, it can be viewed online. The electronic docket is on the Commission’s EDIS site.
People who need help using the site can email for assistance. Hearing-impaired individuals can use the TDD terminal for more information at (202) 205-1810.
The investigation’s goal is to see if the import, sale for import, or sale after import violates section 337. The investigation looks at certain products that may infringe on specific patent claims.
The products are semiconductor devices. They are made using different Tower processes like RF, power management, BCD, logic, SiGe, and BiCMOS. They include wafers and chips.
The investigation will have specific parties. GlobalFoundries is listed as the complainant. Respondents listed are Tower Semiconductor companies and other connected entities.
The Chief Administrative Law Judge will appoint a presiding Administrative Law Judge. The Office of Unfair Import Investigations will not join the investigation as a party.
Responses to the complaint and notice must be submitted on time. They are due within 20 days of the date of service. Late responses may lead to a waiver of rights to contest the complaint.
Failure to respond may lead to findings against the respondents. This includes exclusion orders or cease and desist orders.
This investigation is an important development in international trade and patent law enforcement.
Legal Disclaimer
This article includes content collected from the Federal Register (federalregister.gov). The content is not an official government publication. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For case-specific consultation, please contact us. Read our full Legal Disclaimer, which also includes information on translation accuracy.
