Preparing yourself for your first business trip to China

Your ticket has been booked and you are ready for your first journey to the Far East. Here are some tips that will help you avoid major pitfalls and get the most from your Chinese adventure.

Text by Oliver Friese

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Preparing yourself for your first business trip to China

Image: © Nikada/ istockphoto.com

China and its market are in the daily focus of Western companies and politicians. But despite the growing number of business relationships and expanding tourism in China, the country remains a mystery to many travelers. China has isolated itself several times in its history of more than 5000 years. One of these periods ended just a few decades ago. International relationships and understanding still need time to grow. But now your ticket is booked and you are curious about your first business trip.

Of course, you are aware that there are cultural differences between the West and Asia. Less obvious, however, are the differences within China. A look at the map reveals that the size of China compares to that of Europe. Now think of the cultural differences that exist within Europe, e.g. between Lithuania and Spain. Daily business in Vilnius follows different rules than in Madrid. The same ...