At the consultation, the delegation urged ASEAN to redouble efforts to speed the flow of goods within ASEAN by improving customs procedures.  Issues discussed during the consultation included transparency and consistency in application of new laws and regulations, enhancement of customs administration websites to include up-to-date regulatory information and customs procedures, the appointment of a dedicated customs contact for key importers, and other customs related matters. The delegation also expressed its support for the National and ASEAN Single Window initiatives and urged member countries to implement the Single Window without delay.

"The current economic climate poses specific challenges for customs administrations in the ASEAN region particularly in respect to achieving the right balance between enforcement operations and trade facilitation initiatives. It was encouraging to see acknowledgement of these challenges during the consultations and the concrete steps that the ASEAN region and individual economies are taking to translate these challenges in competitive opportunities in the truly globalised economy" Mr. Jackson stated.

The Council delegation also had bilateral meetings with senior customs officials from Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.  The delegation met with the senior customs official from the ASEAN Secretariat. 

Southeast Asia is America's fifth-largest trading partner behind only Canada, Mexico, China and the EU. American exports to the region have grown steadily over the past ten years and are roughly the same as U.S. exports to China and three-times larger than American exports to India (US$68.4 billion to ASEAN nations in 2008 versus US$71.4 billion to China and US$18.7 billion to India).  ASEAN customs administrations have a central role to play in ensuring that two-way trade continues to grow.

Formed in 2005, the Customs Working Group has over 25 corporate members.  The Group focuses on the elimination of trade barriers and the promotion of trade facilitation in the ASEAN region.

###############################

The US-ASEAN Business Council and affiliates are dedicated to strengthening bilateral and US ASEAN relations and building strong economic and commercial ties. Members of the Council include Fortune 1000 companies in support of promoting trade, investment, and technology cooperation, advancing US ASEAN relations through strong participation in public-private partnerships, and committing to development and corporate social responsibility. The Council's members are represented in diverse industries, including aerospace, agribusiness, automobiles, computers and information technology, consumer goods, energy exploration and development, express delivery services, financial services, health care and pharmaceuticals, media & entertainment, mining, software, and telecommunications.

For information on the US-ASEAN Business Council or general information visit www.us-asean.org.