Short answer

Key rules: business card always with both hands, facing the partner; gift should be symbolic (tea, vodka, regional souvenir), no clocks or sharp objects; host gives the first toast; never say a flat «no» publicly — it breaks mianzi; be punctual but tolerate 15–20-minute delays from the Chinese side.

Guanxi — the foundation

Guanxi (关系) is a network of personal connections and mutual favours. In China, business happens between people, not companies. The first contract is usually small — a reliability test. After 2–3 successful deals, better terms and exclusive offers open up.

Mianzi — your partner's «face»

Mianzi (面子) is social status and public reputation. Never: (1) criticise a partner in front of subordinates; (2) demand a flat «no»; (3) argue loudly; (4) correct mistakes publicly — note them and discuss privately.

Business cards — first impression

Bring 100+ cards with a Chinese translation on the back. Rules:

• Present with both hands, text facing the partner.
• When receiving, place on the table — not straight into your pocket.
• Never write on a received card in the owner's presence.
• State your exact title — Chinese partners notice rank.

Gifts — what to do and what to avoid

An exchange of souvenirs is standard at a first meeting. Good options — tea from Ukraine, branded vodka, a regional souvenir. Avoid:

• Clocks (送钟 sounds like «sending to a funeral»).
• Sharp objects — knives, scissors (symbolise break-up).
• White or black wrapping (mourning). Go for red or gold.
• The number 4 — sounds like «death». Give 2, 6 or 8 items.

Negotiations and signing

Chinese partners negotiate slowly with many repetitions. Don't rush — it's a tactic. The first offer is rarely final, prepare for 2–3 rounds; don't name a price first; read the contract in both languages (Chinese + English); the chop (seal) matters more than the signature.

Banquets — baijiu and toasts

An invitation to a formal dinner is already a sign of trust. Rules: the host sits first, the seat of honour faces the door; the host gives the first toast; «ganbei» means «bottoms up» — warn in advance if you don't drink strong spirits; stand when clinking with a higher-ranking person; food is ordered for the whole table — try everything, or you insult the host.

10 mistakes that kill deals

China2Day's experience shows deals fail most often because of:

• 1. Direct criticism in front of the partner's colleagues.
• 2. Ignoring the business card.
• 3. A clock as a gift.
• 4. Asking for a «final price» at the first meeting.
• 5. Refusing baijiu without explanation.
• 6. Deadline ultimatums.
• 7. Discussing competitors publicly.
• 8. Phone/email during dinner.
• 9. Political topics (Taiwan, Hong Kong).
• 10. Ignoring Chinese holidays (CNY, Mid-Autumn).