Acceptable

It is possible that your Chinese counterparts, even recent acquaintances, will ask you to do favours for them that seem a bit forward in the Western sense.

Doing small favours will earn you points that may be well worth your trouble. These include providing English practice, exchanging small amounts of money, giving away small bills or coins of foreign currency as souvenirs, or agreeing to transport something to an overseas Chinese relative – although beware, these objects may be bulky and/or heavy.

Unacceptable

On the other hand, if you believe something illegal, or even overly inconvenient, is being asked of you, you can refuse without appearing rude, simply by giving a vague answer such as “It’s not really convenient this time,” which will generally be accepted as a “no.” If you continue to be approached, you may have to be firmer, but don’t feel as if you have to give a long explanation or be embarrassed by a refusal.