Issues discussed during the three-day meetings included transparency and consistency in application of new laws and regulations, the importance of a dedicated customs contact for key importers, progress on Authorized Economic Operator security programs and other customs related matters. The delegation also commended ASEAN for the advancements made by member countries to develop their National Single Window (NSW) with an eye towards the establishment of the ASEAN Single Window by 2015 to ensure the expeditious clearance of imports and exports. The Council however continued to urge ASEAN member countries to expedite and implement their NSWs without further delays.

"This forum continues to provide an excellent opportunity for Council members to access senior customs officials from the ASEAN region and to engage in mutually constructive dialogue on customs and trade related issues. An increasing level of cooperation between ASEAN Customs administrations and the private sector is evident including an understanding of the key role that industry can play in the development of trade facilitation and security focused initiatives in the region” Mr. Jackson said.

In addition to the plenary session with all ten Directors-General responsible for Customs, the Council delegation had bilateral meetings with the Directors-General and senior customs officials from Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

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Currently celebrating its 25th anniversary, the US-ASEAN Business Council represents over100 major U.S. Corporations, ranging from those who have been active in Southeast Asia for over 100 years to newcomers looking to expand their presence in one of the world’s most dynamic markets. The Council’s sectoral working groups, including Customs, Defense & Security, Energy, Financial Services, Food and Agriculture, Health & Life Sciences, Information & Communications Technology, and Infrastructure, bring together the pre-eminent companies in their fields to enable high-level dialogues that help resolve issues and drive innovation and investment. With long-established personal and professional relationships in ASEAN and Washington, the Council is the most effective conduit between decision-makers on both sides of the Pacific.

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For Further Information Please Contact Anthony Nelson at anelson@usasean.org.