Contents - Made-in-China.com

74
FAQ FOCUS ON CHINA / 04 / 2011 FOCUS ON CHINA / 04 / 2011 FAQ 75
Singapore, Japan, US, Korea, UK, France,
Netherland, Germany.
What is the current situation of
electronic business in China?
At present in the field of Chinese electronic
business, B2C, C2C trade is growing
vigorously, and B2B occupies an absolute
share in the market.
What is the situation of B2B
market in China in 2010?
In 2010, B2B market in China kept a steady
growth, and the volume of business reached
3.8 thousand billion, increasing by 15.8% yearon-year.
Culture and customs
What’s “guanxi”?
Guanxi in Chinese means "relationship" or
social networking. It's regarded as the central
idea in Chinese society. "Guanxi" can take on
many forms. It does not have to be based on
money. The kernel of guanxi is doing business
through value-based relationships. Chinese
people feel obligated to do business with
their friends first. Right guanxi can ensure a
success.
What’s “mianzi”?
Mianzi, which means face in English, is a
combination of dignity, pride and public
reputation. Managing mianzi is an integral
part of Chinese etiquette. It can be so
important that Chinese may sweep aside
business to keep it.
What’s “geimianzi”?
It means giving face, showing respect for
a person's feelings. Simple ways of "giving
face" could be sitting in the correct place at a
meeting or dinner, offering an appropriate gift
to a person, or giving praise and compliments.
What’s “meimianzi”?
It means losing face. Face can be lost through
a public insult or public contradiction or by
failure to receive the proper level of respect. It
is not really the act that causes a loss of face but
the fact that the act is public, and there is public
humiliation or loss of prestige involved.
What’s “liumianzi”?
It means giving someone a chance to
regain lost honor. It can be very important in
building long-term business relationships and
friendships.
Why do Chinese suppliers invite
me to a business dinner? Does it
mean their products are not so
good?
No, Chinese business dinners are based on
tradition. If done properly, the business banquet
is one of the best ways to demonstrate one's
knowledge and appreciation of Chinese culture
to current or future business associates.
What's the seat etiquette in
Chinese business culture?
Generally, the seat in the middle of the table,
facing the door, is reserved for the guest
of honor. The host sits directly to the left.
Everyone else is seated in descending order of
status.
Is there anything I should avoid
when having dinner with Chinese
people?
Leaving a "clean plate" means that you are not
given enough food, which makes the host
lose face.
Don't tap on your bowl with your chopsticks.
Sticking your chopsticks straight up in your
rice bowl is considered rude because in this
position, they resemble the joss sticks that are
used in Chinese religious rituals.
Should I arrive earlier when
hosting a banquet?
Yes, you should arrive at least 30 minutes
before your guests.
What does “Have you eaten?”
mean?
The question “Have you eaten?” or “Where
have you been?” are mentioned in China as
well as “How are you?” It's just a superficial
inquiry that does not require a literal-minded,
detailed answer.
Do I need to give business gifts to
Chinese?
Unlike many countries, gift-giving does not
carry any negative connotations when doing
business in China. Gifts should always be
exchanged for celebrations, or thanks for
assistance.
What should I know about
business gift-giving?
Give a gift to the entire company, rather than
an individual, and present the gift to the
leader of the Chinese negotiating team. A gift
should always be wrapped, but avoid plain
black or white paper because these are the
colors of mourning. Don’t expect them to
unwrap the gift in front of you, rather it may
just be put aside. This does not mean they are
not grateful.
Which kind of gifts is popular
among Chinese?
Popular items include cigarette lighters, wine,
the exotic coins, local traditional ornaments or
food etc.
Never give clocks to Chinese.
Why do Chinese people
sometimes refuse my gift?
Chinese do not usually accept a gift, invitation
or favor when it is first presented. Politely
refusing two or three times is thought to reflect
modesty and humility. Accepting something
in haste makes a person look aggressive and
greedy. So it may sometimes take a few tries to
get the person to accept the gift.
Do I need to tip in China?
No, tipping is not practiced and almost no one
asks for tips.
What's is the order of Chinese
names?
The family name always comes first, and
only family members or close friends use first
names.
Why do Guangdong people tap
the table when someone pours tea
for them?
It means THANK YOU.
When do Chinese people usually
take a long vacation?
The annual Chinese Spring Festival comes
every late January or early February, almost
every Chinese person takes vacation for at
least 7 days.
Why do younger Chinese give up a
seat to elders on bus?
Chinese people respect for elders. So don't be
offended if younger Chinese offer you an arm
going up stairs or other assistance if you are older.
Does every Chinese learn Kongfu?
Of course not.
Travel Tips
How to learn Chinese for free in
China?
Many Chinese, especially young students, are
eager to improve their spoken English. This
situation is ideal, as language exchange with
a native speaker of Chinese is one of the best
ways to learn the language.
Do I need a local guide during my
tour?
If you want to do lots of touristy or shopping,
you'd better have one. They can save you
money on tickets of museums and can help
you get good prices at the markets.
How to tell a cab driver where to
go when he or she can't speak
English?
Ask someone to write down the address in
Chinese to show the cab driver. Never get in
an unmarked taxi cab, or you will be charged
more than you should. Make sure they always
use the meter.
Can I drink tap water in China?
No, usually tap water is not drinkable. You are
recommended to drink bottled water instead.
Always boil the water if your only choice is tap
water.
What are the emergency
telephone numbers in China?
110--Police, 119--Fire, 120--Emergency,
114--Directory inquires and information,
121—Weather.
When are the peak tourist
seasons?
Chinese New Year: Date varies but generally
late January or early February. China National
Day: First week of October.
Avoid travelling during these periods.
Can I bargain in China?
Open air markets, privately run stores are
best for bargaining. Remember to establish
a friendly rapport first. You are creating a