According to China Optics and Optoelectronics Manufacturers Association (COEMA) and China Solid State Lighting Alliance (CSA), the International Trade Commission (ITC) of the United States March 20 began an investigation into the products of 30 companies worldwide, including 4 Chinese companies. All the companies have been informed of the investigation.

Di Bo, director of CSA revealed that the case is of concern not only to the four Chinese companies directly involved, but also to China's entire LED industry. The alliance is preparing to deal with the matter, and the four companies will work together and share the costs of handling the case, Di added.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Gertrude Neumark Rothschild, a retired professor from Colombia University. The complaint alleges that LED and laser products made by the 30 companies infringe a patent owned by Rothschild, and requests a Section 337 investigation. It also requests that the ITC issue exclusion orders and cease and desist orders.

For more details, please read the full story in Chinese. (http://www.china-cbn.com/s/n/000004/20080327/000000090813.shtml)

(China.org.cn March 27, 2008)