China is a huge country with enormous and ever-increasing economic power. Over the last 15 years, its economy has been growing at a staggering rate — around 10% a year. This, coupled with a population of 1.3 billion (around a quarter of the world’s population), has made it an attractive proposition for foreign investors. However, while opportunities abound, China’s culture and history are very different from other countries. To succeed, Western business people need to research carefully before trying to enter this market. This article considers the key issues involved.
Chinese names always start with the person’s family name (surname). Chinese people do not use first names in business meetings and prefer to use people’s surnames or an honorable title (such as director, chief executive, general manager or chairman). For example, Liu Xiang, the Olympic gold medallist for the 110-metre hurdles, and Yao Ming, the NBA basketball player, would be addressed as Mr Liu and Mr Yao, respectively.
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