The Chinese Aftermarket Ink Cartridges Industry Faced Challenges from the USA “337 Investigation”

April 10, 2006
The Chinese aftermarket ink cartridges industry faced a great challenge from the USA “337 Investigation”.

Several days ago, three companies including American Epson Portland Inc., filed an application with US International Trade Commission (ITC) for initiating“337 investigation”, claiming that the ink cartridges imported into America have infringed the patent rights of the applicant. Epson is asking the ITC to issue general order or permanent order against those targeting companies prohibiting these companies from importing, distributing infringing cartridges into USA.

As we know, China has become world’s printer aftermarket center, with its ink cartridges products accounting for 60% of the world’s total output. And 90% product of NASIDA (company name) and GELICI (company name) are exported overseas, which has given a serious impact on EPSON、CANON、HP.

As the complaint was filed on February 17th, according to the procedure, the ITC shall accept the case formally within 30 days upon receiving the complaint, that is to say, ITC will initiate the case on March 17th, and so the left time for preparing the case is not much. Hearing of the news, Guangdong Business Association held an urgent meeting to assist the relevant companies in dealing with the US“337 Investigation”procedure.

　

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