The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has found in Epson's favor over an ink-jet cartridge patent infringement complaint.

In February 2006, Epson filed the complaint with the ITC claiming that 24 U.S., Korean, German and Chinese companies were infringing its patents. The Japan-headquartered electronics and imaging firm requested that sales and import of those companies' ink cartridge products to the U.S. be suspended.

In its initial finding, ITC supported a cease and exclusion order barring the companies from importing the disputed cartridges and preventing all disputed cartridges from entering the U.S. market.

The initial ruling in the case is being reviewed by the ITC prior to the announcement of a final ruling on July 30.

Half of the 24 companies fingered have Chinese connections. They include China's Nine Star Image and Zhuhai Gree Magneto Electric.

Source: Xinhua