Philip Morris USA said that it has filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to stop illegally imported cigarettes bearing PM USA's trademarks from entering the United States.

The complaint alleges that Internet-based cigarette vendors are unfairly selling cigarettes bearing Philip Morris USA's trademarks in violation of U.S. intellectual property laws and the Lanham Act.
The complaint asks the ITC to issue a general exclusion order, which would require U.S. customs and border protection to stop all imports that infringe on the company's trademarks from entering the United States, the company said.
The action by the unit of Altria Group is the latest attempt by the company to stop the illegal sales of cigarettes bearing its brands. (pi)