Dear sir/madam

I am writing to you as part of an effort by Customs Administrations from the countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to improve the quality of service provided to companies in the region, such as yours, who frequently import and export. In 1997, ASEAN Customs announced an ASEAN Customs Vision 2020 which aims to establish "world class standards and excellence in efficiency, professionalism and service".

Part of this effort is a commitment to enhance relationships with the business community. ASEAN Customs have recognised that this relationship can lead to mutual benefits, on the one hand, improving the business climate and, on the other, enhancing Customs ability to perform the duties entrusted to them.

We need to know how companies can be better served by ASEAN Customs Administrations. A questionnaire (as attached) has been prepared to elicit your important views, particularly on the following:

1. your perceptions on the extent to which Customs administrations are business friendly;

2. your views on specific programmes which can be undertaken by Customs to improve the business climate;

3. your suggestions on how Customs service can be improved.

Your constructive comments through this questionnaire can significantly contribute to improving the services at Customs, leading to lower costs, speedier clearance and more predictability for your imports and exports. I can assure you that your responses will be treated with utmost confidentiality. As such, you are invited to respond to the questionnaire and fax/e-mail it back to us,as soon as possible.

Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

SUTHAD SETBOONSARNG
Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN