Directorate change

ABERDEEN ASIAN SMALLER COMPANIES INVESTMENT TRUST PLC
Directorate Changes
16 September 2004

The Board of Directors of Aberdeen Asian Smaller Companies Investment Trust PLC
(the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Iain Saunders as a
Director of the Company with immediate effect.

Mr Saunders, aged 57, was formerly a director of Fleming Asset Management for
many years and is currently the Chairman of Baring Emerging Europe PLC and a
director of a number of other investment companies.

Commenting on the appointment Mr Nigel Cayzer, Chairman, said: "Iain's extensive
experience of emerging markets including the Far East and the investment trust
sector will prove a valuable asset to the Board and its deliberations.  I am
sure he will serve the interests of Shareholders well".

Mr Saunders currently has no beneficial interest in the shares of the Company.

The following information is provided in accordance with Paragraph 16.4 of the
UKLA's Listing Rules:
16.4 (A)
Present: Baring Emerging Europe PLC
         Czech and Slovak Investment Corporation Inc.
         JP Morgan Fleming American Investment Trust
         JP Morgan Fleming Indian Investment Trust PLC
Past:    Baring Emerging Europe Trust PLC


There are no disclosures required to be made under Paragraph 6.F.2(b) to (g) of
the UKLA's Listing Rules.

Mr Hugh Young resigns as a Director of the Company today prior to the changes to
the UKLA Listing Rules that come into operation on 1 April 2005 regarding the
number of management representatives on the board of an investment company.  Mr
Young will remain involved with the Company as the Investment Manager and he is
also appointed as Mr Martin Gilbert's alternate with immediate effect.  Ms
Radhika Ajmera resigns today as Mr Gilbert's alternate.

16 September 2004.

Enquiries
Robert Hoskin
Aberdeen Asset Management PLC - Company Secretary
020 7463 6000

END