ITC seeks public comment on ink-cartridge import relief
The US International Trade Commission is seeking public submissions on remedy and public-interest questions in a Section 337 investigation into certain ink cartridges and components. An administrative law judge issued an initial determination on May 15, 2026, finding a violation. The Commission will use public comments to decide whether to impose import relief (such as exclusion orders or cease-and-desist orders) and set bonding requirements if a violation is confirmed.
Photo: Towfiqu barbhuiya / PexelsOn May 15, 2026, the presiding administrative law judge in ITC Investigation No. HL6 issued an Initial Determination (Order No. 16) finding a violation of Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in connection with certain ink cartridges and components thereof, according to a Federal Register notice published May 21, 2026.
The ALJ's order included a Recommended Determination on remedy and bonding. The Commission is now soliciting public submissions on whether the recommended relief—which may include exclusion orders barring imports or cease-and-desist orders targeting domestic distributors—serves the public interest.
"The Commission is soliciting submissions on public interest issues raised by the recommended relief should the Commission find a violation. This notice is soliciting comments from the public and interested government agencies only."
Section 337 investigations target unfair methods of competition and patent infringement in US import commerce. Remedies typically include import exclusions (which prevent goods from entering the US) and domestic cease-and-desist orders. However, the Commission may decline to impose such relief if doing so would harm the public interest—for example, if the remedy would significantly disrupt supply chains, raise consumer prices, or harm downstream US industries.
Interested parties—including importers, retailers, manufacturers, and trade associations—have an opportunity to file comments explaining how the proposed relief might affect their business, consumers, or the broader ink-cartridge market. Government agencies (including the US Trade Representative's office) may also weigh in.
The final outcome depends on whether the Commission confirms the ALJ's violation finding and how it weighs the public-interest arguments.
What this means for shippers
If the Commission imposes an exclusion order on ink cartridges or components, importers must cease or redirect shipments from the named respondents immediately or face seizure and liquidation. Monitor the Commission's final determination and any interim relief orders; review product HS classifications and component sourcing now to assess exposure. File confidential comments by the deadline if you import, distribute, or manufacture affected cartridges or parts. Check /sanctions-screen for any supplemental enforcement updates.
