Hong Kong Business

Business in Hong Kong is conducted efficiently and formally and punctuality is important. It is advised to allow for sufficient travel time before meetings considering the high traffic congestion. Suits and ties are the norm and it is customary to exchange business cards (printed in English on one side and Cantonese on the other) at the start of a meeting, along with a handshake. Business cards should be given and received using both hands, with the Cantonese side facing the recipient, and should be treated with respect. It is common to greet the more senior or elder person first. Business entertainment is usually in the form of a lunch or dinner that is organized by the hosting partner. Food is also usually ordered and paid for by the host. It is not unusual to exchange gifts, but they are opened at the meeting. Business hours are usually from 9am to 5pm, sometimes later on weekdays and some businesses also open between 9am and 1pm on Saturdays.

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