The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) will investigate a complaint by a Taiwanese chipmaker Macronix, which claims that Toshiba flash memory devices and products infringe on its patents.

The agency handles claims of intellectual property rights violations related to American imports. The commission can halt the import or sale of products if it finds that infringement has occurred.

Since the Toshiba investigation may affect product sales in the U.S., it could factor into the price paid for Toshiba Memory, the chip unit the Japanese company is moving to sell.

The commission typically aims to conclude investigations within 16 months, though extensions are permitted.