Section 419Sec./Art. 419

Examination of Goods. Examination of goods, when required by the Bureau, shall be conducted immediately after the goods declaration has been lodged. Priority in the examination shall be given to live animals, perishable goods and other goods requiring immediate examination.

Whenever necessary, a system of coordination and joint examination of goods shall be established by the Bureau and other regulatory agencies under existing laws and regulations.

As a general rule, the Bureau may examine the goods in the presence of the declarant or an authorized representative. Examination of the goods in the absence of the declarant or authorized representative may be allowed in exceptional circumstance and for valid and justifiable grounds, as may be defined by regulations promulgated by the Secretary of Finance, upon recommendation of the Commissioner. The Bureau may require the declarant to be present or to be represented at the examination of the goods or to render any assistance necessary to facilitate the examination.

The Bureau shall take samples of the goods only when needed to establish the tariff description and value of goods declared, or to ensure compliance with this Act. Samples drawn shall be as minimal as possible.