Travel Etiquette
China
Currency
Chinese Yuan
Official Language
Mandarin
Cantonese
Dress
Formal business attire is common in
China and should be in neutral colors.
Women should refrain from wearing short
sleeves or high heels. Revealing clothing
is considered offensive to Chinese
business people.
Meetings
Appointments and being on time are a
must. Allow your host to leave the
meeting first.
Gifts
Quality writing pens are good choices for
gifts in Chinese business.
Hand Gestures and Body Language
Do not use large hand movements while
talking; these may be distracting. Use an
open palm to point instead of your finger.
Bowing or nodding is the most common
greeting in China, yet you may be offered
a hand to shake. Wait for them to offer
their hand first.
Do not place your chopsticks straight up
and down in your food or drop them during
the meal as it is considered bad luck.
Formalities
Do not finish your entire meal if hosted at
someone’s house as it is considered rude
– representing that the host did not feed
you enough.
Women should not drink alcohol with meals.
Present and receive business cards with
both hands and never write on a business
card or put it in your purse, wallet or
pocket. It is best to carry a card case.
