China

Contents

Introduction……………………………........ | |

1. 2.1. Cultural differences and etiquette……… | |

2.2. Laws, rules and regulations…………… | |

2.3. Living overseas, learning Chinese……. | |

2. Marketing in China……………….……. | |

3.4. The China price……………….………. | |

3.5. Sales and marketing……………..……. | |

Conclusion…………………………….….… | |

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1.

2.1. Cultural difference and etiquette.

Economists and politicians can argue endlessly about whether China is "different" or "unique." Some maintain that with its vast population and landmass, its accelerating pace of development, its grandiose imperial heritage, and its growing modern-day clout, China is simply in a class of its own. Others insist there is nothing entirely unique about it. India, for example, is booming too, after all, and it is nearly as large. In this view, China today can be compared to Japan, the United States, or Germany, among others. Each of these countries, for better or worse, made waves in the world order as it rose to big-power status. The debate is bound to continue long into the future.

But there can be no debating this: when it comes to culture, norms of etiquette, social behavior, and political sensitivities, China is unique. Of course, to truly get a feel for these things, there is no substitute for time spent on the ground paying close attention and soaking it all up yourself.

In this chapter I will give an overview of the main points to consider before entering a foreign market, especially a Chinese market.

Changes

At a certain level, etiquette is actually becoming somewhat less important in China than it used to be.

Part of the change is generational: among older people, you will find traditional attitudes very much in place, and when dealing with them matters of etiquette remain important. But just as in other societies, China's younger people tend to be considerably less formal than their elders, more...