August 22, 2022
News Release 22-090
Inv. No(s). 337-TA-1325
Contact: Jennifer Andberg, 202-205-1819
USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Soft Projectile Launching Devices, Components Thereof, Ammunition, and Products Containing Same

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain soft projectile launching devices, components thereof, ammunition, and products containing same.  The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s notice of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Hasbro, Inc, of Pawtucket, RI and Spin Master, Inc. of Los Angeles, CA on July 21, 2022.  The complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain soft projectile launching devices, components thereof, ammunition, and products containing same that infringe patents asserted by the complainants.  The complainants request that the USITC issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders. 

The USITC has identified the following as the respondents this investigation:

Shenzhen Yi Jin Electronics Science of Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province, China;
Guangdong Yu Lee Technology Corporation of Dongguan City, Guangdong Province, China;
Yu Lee Company Ltd. of Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong;
Gel Blaster, Inc. f/k/a Gel Blaster, LLC, Austin, TX;
S-Beam Precision Products Ltd. of Zhongshan City, Guangdong Province, China;
Splat-R-Ball, LLC, of Rogers, AR;
Daisy Manufacturing Company of Rogers, AR;
Prime Time Toys Ltd. of Kwun Tong, Hong Kong;
Prime Time Toys LLC of Pompton Lakes, NJ; and
Easebon Services Ltd. of Kwun Tong, Hong Kong.

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1325), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case.  The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing.  The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission.

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time.  Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation.  USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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