WASHINGTON (October 27, 2023) — Yesterday, the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) issued an order barring imports of Apple Watches due to the company’s infringement of two patents held by American medical device manufacturer Masimo. Frank Cullen, executive director of the Council for Innovation Promotion (C4IP), issued the following statement applauding the decision:
“C4IP unequivocally supports the USITC’s decision to uphold the January 2023 ruling that Apple engaged in unfair trade practices by infringing patented technology invented by Masimo.
“Protecting American intellectual property and preventing the importation of infringing products into the U.S. is in the public interest. Allowing unwarranted exemptions for patent theft would have severe implications for public health, national security, U.S. economic vitality, and American consumer interests. Such actions would set a dangerous precedent, undermining the constitutionally-protected intellectual property rights that drive innovation in critical and emerging sectors — including technology and biopharmaceuticals.
“C4IP commends the USITC’s decision to hold companies accountable for patent infringement and stand up for intellectual property rights in the United States.”
About Council for Innovation Promotion: The Council for Innovation Promotion is a bipartisan coalition dedicated to promoting strong and effective intellectual property rights that drive innovation, boost economic competitiveness, and improve lives everywhere.