Do’s

A gift for your host is always a good idea, especially if the meeting/visit is of some importance. Anything that is offered sincerely and with enthusiasm will be appreciated, but the best gifts are probably items you have brought from home that are representative of where you come from. Good baijiu or maotai are also welcome.

It is considered polite and good form to initially refuse a gift, and you may see the Chinese do this several times with a great deal of forcefulness before finally accepting in the end. This is done for modesty’s sake and, if you are comfortable doing so, you might also make an initial refusal with this consideration in mind.

Dont’s

Take care about what you admire, especially in the homes of your Chinese hosts, as open admiration of an item can be taken as an indication that you would like to have it, and the host that does not offer it as a gift might be considered rude.

Gifts are often not opened in the presence of the giver, lest the receiver’s possible disappointment show in his/her face, thereby embarrassing the giver. Failure to open your gift immediately does not signify indifference to your efforts.