United States International Trade Commission

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC or ITC) is an agency of the United States federal government that advises the legislative and executive branches on matters of trade. It was created by Congress in 1916 as the U.S. Tariff Commission. It changed to its current name in 1974. It is an independent, bipartisan entity that analyzes trade issues such as tariffs and competitiveness and publishes reports. As a quasi-judicial entity, the USITC investigates the impact of imports on U.S. industries, and directs actions against unfair trade practices, such as subsidies; dumping; and intellectual property infringement, including copyright infringement.

Background and statutory authority

The USITC was established by the U.S. Congress on September 8, 1916, as the U.S. Tariff Commission. In 1974, the name was changed to the U.S. International Trade Commission by section 171 of the Trade Act of 1974.

Statutory authority for the USITC's responsibilities is provided by the following legislation:

Tariff Act of 1930

Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933

Trade Expansion Act of 1962

Trade Act of 1974

Trade Agreements Act of 1979

Trade and Tariff Act of 1984

Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988

Uruguay Round Agreements Act of 1994

Mission

The U.S. International Trade Commission seeks to:

Administer U.S. trade remedy laws within its mandate in a fair and objective manner;

Provide the President, Office of the United States Trade Representative, and Congress with independent, quality analysis, information, and support on matters of tariffs and international trade and competitiveness; and

Maintain the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States.

In so doing, the Commission serves the public by implementing U.S. law and contributing to the development and implementation of sound and informed U.S. trade policy.

The USITC's five operations are:

Import Injury Investigations

Intellectual Property-Based Import Investigations

Research Program

Trade Information Services

Trade Policy Support

Commissioners

The president nominates and the U.S. Senate confirms the six commissioners who make up the USITC. The president and the secretary of state sign the formal commission.