Section 337 Investigation of Video-Capable Electronic Devices and Smart Televisions
The U.S. International Trade Commission has instituted Investigation No. 337-TA-1495 based on a complaint filed by InterDigital, Inc. and related entities alleging patent infringement by manufacturers of smart televisions, monitors, and video-capable electronic devices. The complaint, filed February 26, 2026, and supplemented March 13, 2026, names 12 respondents including TCL and Hisense companies located in China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and the United States. The investigation concerns importation and sale of products that allegedly infringe certain patent claims. The Commission will schedule an evidentiary hearing and issue a final determination at the earliest practicable time.
Section 337 Investigation of TOPCon Solar Cells Patent Infringement
The U.S. International Trade Commission instituted Investigation No. 337-TA-____ based on a complaint filed by First Solar, Inc. alleging patent infringement under Section 337. The investigation targets TOPCon solar cells, modules, panels, and related products importing into the United States. The complainant seeks general or limited exclusion orders and cease and desist orders based on U.S. Patent No. 9,130,074.
Section 337 Investigation of NAND and DRAM Memory Chips
The U.S. International Trade Commission instituted Investigation No. 337-TA-1492 on March 25, 2026, based on a complaint filed by MonolithIC 3D Inc. alleging that certain NAND and DRAM memory chips imported into the United States infringe eight U.S. patents. The investigation will determine whether there is a violation of Section 337 and whether a domestic industry exists. If successful, the complainant seeks a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders against infringing imports.
General Exclusion Order on Electrolyte Beverages - Section 337 Investigation
The U.S. International Trade Commission affirmed an initial determination finding Section 337 trademark violations and issued a General Exclusion Order prohibiting importation of electrolyte containing beverages that infringe U.S. Trademark Registration Nos. 4,222,726, 4,833,885, 4,717,350, and 4,717,232. The investigation (No. 337-1234) is terminated. Eight Mexican respondents were named, with two terminated by withdrawal. Affected parties must immediately cease importing infringing products or face customs seizure.
New ITC investigation in-vehicle infotainment systems Mar 30
New ITC investigation in-vehicle infotainment systems Mar 30
Section 337 Investigation of Dental Burs - Respondent Added
The U.S. International Trade Commission determined not to review an Initial Determination (Order No. 6) amending the complaint in Investigation No. 337-TA-1817 to add Research Corporation d/b/a Research Industries (Sialkot, Pakistan) as a respondent. The amendment was granted based on complainants' motion filed February 23, 2026, supported by the Office of Unfair Import Investigations. The Commission's vote occurred on March 25, 2026.
Amended Russia General License 131D - Lukoil International GmbH Transactions
OFAC amended Russia-related General License 131D authorizing certain transactions for Lukoil International GmbH, specifically the negotiation and entry into contingent contracts for the sale of the company and related maintenance activities. OFAC also amended FAQ 1224 and FAQ 1225 to provide additional guidance on these Russia sanctions.
TRA initiates first absorption review, excavator producer
TRA initiates first absorption review, excavator producer
Italian National Pleads Guilty to Export Control Violations for Smuggling Ammunition to Russia
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York announced that Italian national Manfred Gruber pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit export control violations. Gruber illegally exported over $540,000 worth of American-made ammunition from the U.S. to Kyrgyzstan via shell companies in Italy, with most subsequently reexported to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine. His Kyrgyzstan-based co-conspirator Sergei Zharnovnikov was sentenced to 39 months' imprisonment in January 2026.
Federal Circuit Upholds ITC Apple Watch Import Ban, Section 337 Violation
The Federal Circuit affirmed the ITC's determination that Apple violated Section 337 of the Tariff Act by importing Apple Watch models that infringe Masimo's patents covering wearable blood oxygen measurement technology. The court upheld the limited exclusion order barring Apple's importation of infringing Apple Watches into the US. Apple had challenged the ITC's domestic industry, claim construction, and validity findings, along with its prosecution laches defense, all of which were rejected.
CIT Expands IEEPA Tariff Refunds to Final Liquidated Entries
The Court of International Trade (CIT) issued an amended order on March 27, 2026, expanding IEEPA tariff refund eligibility to include entries that have reached final liquidation (liquidation date plus 180 days). The order authorizes CBP to reliquidate and refund IEEPA tariffs even for entries no longer subject to protest, removing a significant administrative hurdle for importers seeking duty refunds following the Supreme Court's February 2026 finding that IEEPA duties were unconstitutional.
OFSI Penalty Apple Distribution International Russia Sanctions Breach
OFSI imposed a £390,000 monetary penalty on Apple Distribution International Limited (ADI) for breaches of the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. ADI instructed a UK bank to make two payments totaling £635,618.75 to Okko LLC, a company wholly owned by designated person JSC New Opportunities (UKSL ref RUS1489). ADI failed to cancel the payment instructions after Okko came under designated person ownership, constituting the breach. This is the first penalty under OFSI's new 2026 enforcement framework enabling settlement.
Secretary Rubio ABC Interview - Iran Military Operations
Secretary of State Marco Rubio appeared on ABC's Good Morning America to discuss ongoing U.S. military operations against Iran, including destruction of Iran's navy, air force, missile launchers, and defense industrial base. Rubio stated objectives are being achieved ahead of schedule and should be completed in weeks. The interview addressed concerns about potential Iranian control of the Straits of Hormuz and options to prevent such an outcome.
U.S. Embassy Caracas Resumes Operations in Venezuela
The U.S. Department of State announced the formal resumption of operations at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela, on March 30, 2026. Since 2019, U.S. diplomatic engagement with Venezuela was conducted through the Venezuela Affairs Unit in Bogotá, Colombia. Ambassador Laura F. Dogu arrived in January as Charge d'Affaires to lead operations and is restoring the chancery building for the eventual resumption of consular services.
ECJU Changes OIEL Amendment Process
The Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) has updated its process for assessing and processing amendment requests for Open Individual Export Licences (OIELs). This change aims to streamline the application process for exporters.
Champlain Valley Vermont AVA Petition
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has received a petition to establish the Champlain Valley of Vermont as a viticultural area. The document includes a list of wineries within the proposed area. This action pertains to the establishment of American Viticultural Areas (AVAs).
Champlain Valley Vermont American Viticultural Area Petition
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has received a petition to establish the "Champlain Valley Vermont" American Viticultural Area (AVA). This notice opens a comment period for interested parties to submit feedback on the proposed AVA designation.
Proposed Champlain Valley of Vermont Viticultural Area
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is proposing to establish the approximately 1,035,104-acre "Champlain Valley of Vermont" American viticultural area. This designation aims to help vintners better describe wine origins and assist consumers in identifying wines based on their geographic source.
ASO Sanctions Guidance for Accountants, Lawyers, Real Estate Agents
The Australian Sanctions Office (ASO) has released three new guidance notes to assist accountants, legal professionals, and real estate agents in understanding their sanctions obligations. These notes are particularly relevant in the context of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing reforms.
Australia DFAT Sanctions Risk Advisory for Incoming Funds from Iran
The Australian Sanctions Office (ASO) has issued an advisory note to the Australian financial sector regarding increased sanctions risks associated with incoming funds from Iran. The advisory highlights potential red flags and recommends enhanced due diligence and transaction monitoring for financial institutions.
Russia Sanctions: Listing of Persons, Entities, and Vessels
The Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs has added 4 persons, 115 entities, and 61 vessels to DFAT's Consolidated List under the Autonomous Sanctions Regulations 2011 concerning Russia. These designations impose targeted financial sanctions, travel bans, and restrictions on sanctioned vessels.
Australia Lowers Price Cap on Russian Crude Oil
On February 24, 2026, Australia lowered the price cap on Russian-origin crude oil from USD47.60 to USD44.10 per barrel. This action impacts Australian individuals and companies providing maritime and financial services related to Russian oil.
MC14 Concludes with Adopted Decisions and Progress on Key Issues
The WTO's 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) concluded with ministers adopting several decisions and committing to continue work on outstanding issues in Geneva. Key outcomes include progress on fisheries subsidies, integration of small economies, and special and differential treatment provisions.