AMD files new legal case against Intel

AMD has filed a new lawsuit against Intel's Japanese subsidiary as part of its campaign against what it calls anticompetitive practices. 

AMD has filed two claims against Intel KK in the Tokyo High Court seeking $50m in damages. The action follows an 11-month investigation by the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) into Intel's business methods in Japan.

"These illegal actions have restricted fair competition and narrowed the choices available to consumers in the computer market," said David M Uze, AMD Japan's president and representative director.

"In March of this year, the JFTC clearly found that Intel KK violated the law. AMD Japan hopes to bring fair and open competition in the computer marketplace, allowing consumers to have a true choice."

AMD is alleging that Intel KK instructed a large Japanese PC manufacturer to withdraw all AMD-based systems from its catalogue in exchange for marketing funds.

In addition AMD claims that Intel put pressure on customers not to attend its launches, and that it allegedly tried to sabotage one of AMD's system launches by buying all the AMD PCs in the display and replacing them with Intel machines.

Yesterday Intel chief executive Paul Otellini stepped into the row publicly and assured the press that he would fight the case tooth and nail. "Intel has always respected the laws of the countries in which it operates," he said.

"Over the years, Intel has been involved in other antitrust suits and faced similar issues. Every one of those matters has been resolved to our satisfaction.

"We unequivocally disagree with AMD's claims and firmly believe this latest suit will be resolved favourably, like the others."

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