国际商务函电双语教程chapter-3.pptVIP

BACKGROUND INFORMATION Generally, if an importer wants to do some importing transactions, he can send the exporter an inquiry to get information of needed imports. So, inquiry is the basis of transaction and a very important step and bridge connecting buyers and sellers in international business. Through comparing inquiries, the importer can choose the most favorable exporter. BACKGROUND INFORMATION The definition of inquiry is that one party in transaction asks the other conditions of this transaction, when he or she prepares to buy or sell products. Inquiry can be made through letter, fax, telephone, or face-to-face communication. However, inquiry is not a necessary procedure of every deal. If both parties acquaint with each other, they do not need to inquiry about conditions and possibility of business. In this case, they can directly make an offer instead of an inquiry. BACKGROUND INFORMATION In a regular inquiry letter, importer usually writes all needed information concisely and correctly, including catalogue, pricelist, sample and so on. According to different contents, inquiry is always divided into two kinds: general inquiry and specific inquiry. The former usually inquiries general information of product such as pricelist, catalogue, sample and terms of payment while the later generally expresses clearly his ideas about specific information of a specific product such as price, quantity, way of shipping, and packing. BACKGROUND INFORMATION “The first inquiry” is sent to a supplier whom you never contact with. In this case, in the beginning of your inquiry letter, you need to tell where and how you get his name and your detailed introduction such as the major products needed, quantity, and way of trade. Tell any information as much as you can in order to let the supplier know what part he or she can help you. In order to let the reader get the main point of your letter, you can write the name of product in the subject line, when inquiring. BACKGROU