United States International Trade Commission

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC or I.T.C.) is an agency of the United States federal government that advises the legislative and executive branches on matters of trade. 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: