The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Sharp Corporation of Japan on January 30, 2008. The complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States of certain liquid crystal display modules, products containing same, and methods for using the same that infringe patents owned by Sharp. The complainant requests that the ITC issue an exclusion order and a cease and desist order.

The ITC has identified the following as respondents in this investigation:

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., of Korea;
Samsung Electronics America, Inc., of Ridgefield Park, NJ; and
Samsung Semiconductor, Inc., of San Jose, CA.

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-634), the ITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The case will be referred to the Honorable Paul J. Luckern, an ITC administrative law judge, who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. Judge Luckern 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.

The ITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the ITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. 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 within that 60-day period.