ITC investigates cleaning product imports

   The U.S. International Trade Commission has voted to initiate an investigation into certain imports of laundry and household cleaning products and related packaging.
   The products include bleach, laundry detergent, all-purpose cleaners, bathroom cleaning products, and disinfecting cleaners and wipes.
   The investigation is based on a complaint filed by The Clorox Co. of Oakland, Calif., on July 25. The complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the 1930 Tariff Act regarding imports that infringe and/or dilute registered U.S. trademarks asserted by Clorox. The complainants request ITC issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders.
   ITC has identified importers Industrias Alen, S.A. de C.V. of Sta. Catarina, Mexico; and Alen U.S.A. of Houston in its investigation.
   The agency’s chief administrative law judge will assign the case to one of the ITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the commission.
   Within 45 days after starting the investigation, ITC will set a target date for its completion. ITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative during that 60-day period.