ITC Dives into NAND/DRAM Chip Patent Wars: Bans on Horizon?
Published Date: 3/30/2026
Notice
Summary
MonolithIC 3D Inc. has asked the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate certain NAND and DRAM memory chips for patent infringement. If the investigation finds problems, it could lead to import bans and sales restrictions, affecting chip makers and sellers in the U.S. This process started in early 2026 and could impact the memory chip market and money flow soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
3D NAND and HBM DRAM Chips Investigated
On March 25, 2026, the U.S. International Trade Commission began an investigation into ‘3D NAND memory chips’ and ‘high bandwidth memory (HBM) DRAM chips’ after a complaint filed February 17, 2026 (supplements filed February 25 and March 16, 2026). The investigation focuses on alleged patent infringement of specific U.S. patents for those products.
Potential Import Bans and Sales Restrictions
The complainant requested limited exclusion orders and cease and desist orders, and the ITC may, after investigation, issue such orders that would bar importation and restrict sales of the accused chips in the United States. If issued, those exclusion or cease-and-desist orders would directly affect chip makers and sellers operating in or selling into the U.S. market.
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