What are good gifts for Chinese business colleagues?

**JJMcClure** · May 14th, 2012, 4:21 AM

So we're off to China on Saturday and need to take some gifts for the main guy and his assistant. Advice online is a little conflicting with some people recommending a practical 'branded' gift like a Parker pen or saying that the appropriateness of the gift is of greater value than it's actual worth, while others recommend something of personal significance to you.

We have a friend who makes lino prints and we were considering taking a couple of framed prints of stuff near us.

Just wondering if anyone with experience in this area can offer any advice?

**grynge** · May 14th, 2012, 5:14 AM

Alcohol is always a winner (except in countries that ban it) locally produced stuff and also a good bottle of something has never ever let me down. Luckily here in South Australia we have some decent wine makers and normally I try and find out what the persons favourite drink is and get some of that.

**TheodoreK** · May 14th, 2012, 5:48 AM

I suggest you get them something they absolutely cannot find locally or order online. Maybe something that's common in the UK but totally unavailable in China.

In my opinion, Parker pens and the such are some of the most boring gifts ever

**JJMcClure** · May 14th, 2012, 7:21 AM

Yeah Alcohol gets recommended a lot. Theo, I agree with you but it only matters what they thin and apparently they like that kind of stuff.

It's got even trickier since I started the thread in that we now have to decide between a gift for 'the company' or individual gifts.

**grynge** · May 14th, 2012, 9:53 AM

In the past when I really wanted to ingratiate myself I try to find out if the person has kids, what sex and roughly how old and then get a local t-shirt, toy to suit. I've yet to find a parent that won't then bend over backwards to help you.

**eddiebooth** · May 14th, 2012, 11:29 AM

Hi JJ,
my wife is Chinese and we have visited friends and relatives a few times.
Without a shadow of doubt alcohol, especially whisky, is very popular for menfolk. For ladies designer/brand name perfumes or clothing (Burberry scarf/credit card wallet/umbrella), for boys any of the big Premier League team shirts or US basketball shirts, and for girls UK/US-specific soft toys (NOT 'made in China) or (like Mum) branded T-shirts will all go down well.

**JJMcClure** · May 14th, 2012, 1:34 PM

Originally Posted by eddiebooth

Hi JJ,
my wife is Chinese and we have visited friends and relatives a few times.
Without a shadow of doubt alcohol, especially whisky, is very popular for menfolk. For ladies designer/brand name perfumes or clothing (Burberry scarf/credit card wallet/umbrella), for boys any of the big Premier League team shirts or US basketball shirts, and for girls UK/US-specific soft toys (NOT 'made in China) or (like Mum) branded T-shirts will all go down well.

Thanks Eddie. I'm thinking a bottle of Single malt then for him, and a bottle of perfume for his assistant. We might still get the framed prints as they're a nice local touch and they've just moved offices. The prints just felt more like a present to the company rather than being personal.

**Fish** · May 14th, 2012, 10:40 PM

Japanese brand cosmetics are popular, if you can get them where you are. Booze is always good, as long as you don't mind the weight. I would avoid most brands, as so many are made in China, as are knock-offs. Japanese electronics are good, if you're going high end, especially video cameras and such. Cigarettes were still going strong when I last visited as well, esp. Marlboro. Bring a carton or two. Even if they don't smoke, they will give them to someone who does and make them happy. Or they'll break it up and give it away by the pack.

**JJMcClure** · May 15th, 2012, 2:26 AM

Thanks guys.

Do they really do the 'turning it down three times ' thing? If they do that how are we supposed to know if if they're turning it down because of the bribe issue or just being polite?