Number: RS22880
Title: Intellectual Property Rights Protection and Enforcement: Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930
Authors: Shayerah Ilias, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 allows U.S. companies to protect themselves from imports that infringe intellectual property rights. The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) adjudicates complaints filed by U.S. companies alleging Section 337 violations. Primary remedies under Section 337 include exclusion orders and cease and desist orders. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of Section 337 proceedings or actions. Members of Congress have expressed concern about the length of time for completion of Section 337 investigations and the effectiveness of enforcement of exclusion orders.
Pages: 6
Date: May 16, 2008