Importing speciality sweets?

[furhan]

Hi,
I am thinking of starting my own company and moving away from what I am doing now.  I want to import sweets from Asia (India, Thailand, Malaysia) and sell them in small quantities or in bulk in the UK.
 
I have never imported before and after spending days going through sites for info I still don't get it.  I live in London so my nearest sea port would be Tilbury.  If my supplier can ship to Tilbury do I just go there and collect the goods?  How does it work?  Is there a customs office or something where I pay the duty and VAT to?  Is this what freight forwarders can do for me?
 
I read the DTI guide on importing and I spend about £100 on two workshop/guides on importing but this process is not explained - is is supposed to be easy?
 
Advice would be appreciated.

[JamesSmith]

If you sell Indian sweets online at all, let me know, love that kind of food :p

[furhan]

Try www.Ambala.co.uk - shipping is expensive but the taste is worth it

[JamesSmith]

Ahhh excellent, just ordered some
 
 Cheers.

[Business Brian]

Never tried any.
 
 How much am I missing out on?
 
 And welcome to business-talk, furhan.