Article 19 Special investigative techniques

If permitted by the basic principles of its domestic legal system, each Party shall, within its possibilities and under the conditions prescribed by its domestic law, take the necessary measures to allow for the appropriate use of controlled delivery and, where it deems it appropriate, for the use of other special investigative techniques, such as electronic or other forms of surveillance and undercover operations, by its competent authorities on its territory for the purpose of effectively combating illicit trade in tobacco, tobacco products or manufacturing equipment.

For the purpose of investigating the criminal offences established in accordance with Article 14, Parties are encouraged to conclude, when necessary, appropriate bilateral or multilateral agreements or arrangements for using the techniques referred to in paragraph 1 in the context of cooperation at the international level.

In the absence of an agreement or arrangement as set forth in paragraph 2, decisions to use such special investigative techniques at the international level shall be made on a case-by-case basis and may, when necessary, take into consideration financial arrangements and understandings with respect to the exercise of jurisdiction by the Parties concerned.

Parties recognize the importance of, and need for, international cooperation and assistance in this area and shall cooperate, with each other and with international organizations, in developing capacity to achieve the goals of this Article.