Trade Commission Reviews Imported Urinal Splash Guards for Violations
Published Date: 12/8/2025
Notice
Summary
The U.S. International Trade Commission is taking a second look at a decision about certain urine splash guards that may have broken patent rules. This affects companies importing or selling these products in the U.S., with possible changes to how these products can be sold or stopped. The Commission is asking for opinions on how to fix the issue, protect the public, and handle money matters soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 1 mixed.
Imports could be blocked by exclusion order
If the Commission orders an exclusion, the specified urine splash guards and components could be barred from entry into the United States. That exclusion would prevent importers and U.S. sellers from bringing these products into the U.S. market while the remedy is in effect.
Respondents may face cease-and-desist orders
The Commission could order cease-and-desist orders (CDOs) requiring respondents to stop importing or selling the accused urine splash guards in the United States. The ALJ recommended CDOs against Maomaohouse, Le Sengyu, HealthSTEC, and Lishian (but not Edermurs) in the recommended determination.
Bond could be set at 100% during Presidential review
If the Commission issues a remedy, the U.S. Trade Representative has 60 days for Presidential review, and during that period subject articles may enter only under bond. Complainant asked for, and the ALJ recommended, a bond equal to 100% of the entered value of infringing articles during the Presidential review period.
ALJ found defaulting respondents infringed patents
On September 17, 2025, the ALJ issued an initial determination finding the Defaulting Respondents in default and granted summary determination of a violation of section 337 as to claims 1 and 2 of U.S. Patent No. 7,870,619 and claims 1 and 2 of U.S. Patent No. 11,812,901. The ALJ recommended a general exclusion order and CDOs against several named respondents.
Public-interest factors will shape any remedy
When deciding whether to order an exclusion or CDOs, the Commission will consider the public interest, including effects on (1) public health and welfare, (2) competitive conditions in the U.S. economy, (3) U.S. production of like or directly competitive articles, and (4) U.S. consumers. Parties and agencies were asked to submit written comments on these factors.
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Key Dates
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