China is a wonderful country, where there is culture, history and a lot of depth. Gift giving is something you will come across quite frequently in China, whether it’s for working relations or personal relations, gifts have to given with much thought and considerations. Unlike most western countries, there is a whole list of protocols to go through when selecting and giving a gift. So be aware of this before you book your China Flights and on your China Travels.
Traditionally speaking, in England, people like to present gifts nicely wrapped with a cute little bow on top. However in China it may be classed as an insult to give someone a present wrapped with a bow, usually it is just in wrapping paper. Also note that Chinese people will never open a present in front of you as it is rude, so they will take it and open it later. If you are given a gift, ask if they mind you opening it then, or prefer for you to open it later.
It is customary to give gifts on birthdays, weddings, holidays and parties, but just like anywhere else in the world presents are also given as a way to say thank you and when going somewhere where you have been invited, such as a dinner party. When I finished working in China, my colleagues all bought me gifts for my departure, and the gifts were very personal as well; little things that they had remembered me saying I like or need and it was so thoughtful.
Here are some tips you should be aware of. When going to someone’s house for dinner, take a present which the whole family can share such as food items. Also in Chinese culture it is quite usual for someone to refuse a present out of politeness, you should offer three times and then they will accept. At the same time if they do not accept after 3 times then you should not carry on trying to make them take it. Additionally it is seen to be rude if you always accept gifts but never return any. The present must also be of the same kind of price range or type which was given to you. Chinese people do bare in mind the financial capability of the person they give gifts too, and even if they have a lot of money, they will never buy anything to extravagant for those less well off, as they might not be able to match the gift and thus proving to be a burden.
In business gifts are also given, however, gifts could also be seen as bribery. Also it is better to present a gift to the organisation then an individual, unless the individual is known on a personal level. If negotiations are involved, the gift should be given after the meeting. Also pictures are not advised to be taken, during gift giving, unless it’s a big occasion.
So when you are on your China Tours having fun and making lots of news friends, or go for a business visit, remember the custom of giving gifts and enjoy the experience of both giving and receiving.
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