USITC Launches Investigation Into Transformer Trade Secrets and TM Claims

The U.S. International Trade Commission voted on August 17, 2026, to institute an investigation into certain transformers and components thereof. The probe stems from a complaint filed by Ayr Energy, Inc. of Mountain View, California.

The complaint alleges violations of Section 337 of the Tariff Act based on the importation, sale for importation, and sale within the United States of transformers by reason of misappropriation of trade secrets, false advertising, unfair competition, trademark infringement, false designation of origin, and common law trademark infringement.

Named respondents include Zetwerk Manufacturing Businesses Private Limited of Bangalore, India; Zetwerk Manufacturing USA Inc. of San Francisco, California; KRYFS Power Components Ltd. of Mumbai, India; and Unimacts Global, LLC of Lexington, Massachusetts.

The complainant seeks a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders. The USITC has not yet made any determination on the merits. An administrative law judge will be assigned to schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing.

Sources: https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2026/er0817_69094.htm https://www.law360.com/articles/2514231/itc-probing-transformers-over-trade-secrets-theft-claim