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.

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.

Capital Treatment of Longevity Products for Retirement Income

APRA has finalized amendments to prudential standards introducing an advanced illiquidity premium option for insurers calculating capital requirements for longevity products, including annuities. The reforms include additional risk controls on governance, reporting, and asset composition to support the AILP approach. These changes take effect on 1 July 2026.

Intermediated General Insurance Statistics Release

APRA released its bi-annual intermediated general insurance statistics for December 2025. The statistics provide an overview of intermediated general insurance placed with APRA-authorised general insurers, Lloyd's underwriters, and unauthorised foreign insurers. The publication is available on the APRA website.

APRA Appoints Two New Executive Directors

APRA announced the promotion of Peter Diamond to Executive Director of General Insurance and Banking and Peter Kohlhagen to Executive Director of Policy and Advice. Diamond replaces Jane Magill who moved to Life and Private Health Insurance and Superannuation; Kohlhagen replaces Sean Carmody who resigned. Recruitment for the vacated General Manager positions will be conducted internally and externally.

Market Engagement for Children and Young People's Safe Space Crisis Café in Brent

West London NHS Trust issued a market engagement notice for a Children and Young People's Safe Space Crisis Café in Brent to support CYP with mental health issues as an alternative to A&E. The engagement event is scheduled for 13 April 2026, with responses due by 10 April 2026. This early engagement precedes a potential formal tender for services staffed by Crisis Support Navigators operating 365 days annually.

Extra Care Cleaning Services, Wirral - £210k Contract

UK Government Contracts Finder published a tender notice on behalf of Magenta Living for cleaning services at two extra care schemes in Wirral, Merseyside. The £210,000 contract spans four years (July 2026 to June 2030), with bids due by 24 April 2026 at 3pm.

Tullie House Museum Exhibition Lighting Design Services Procurement

The UK Crown Commercial Service published a contract notice on behalf of Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery Trust seeking an exhibition lighting designer for Phase 3 of Project Tullie in Carlisle. The competitive quotation (below threshold) is valued at £0-£15,000, open to SMEs, with a closing date of 11 May 2026 at 10am.

Marsh Green Playground Refurbishment Contract

Edenbridge Town Council published a contract opportunity notice via Contracts Finder for the refurbishment and upgrade of Marsh Green playground in Edenbridge, Kent. The contract value is £50,000-£70,000, with a closing date of 29 May 2026 at 5pm. The works include removal of outdated equipment, installation of new inclusive play equipment for children aged 0-8, and safety surfacing installation.