It's time for some Trade Fair 'special' treatment.

   Lavish gift-giving has always been an important part of Chinese culture. Today, official policy in business culture forbids giving gifts (the gesture is seen as bribery). Yet the Chinese business community, when all said and done, still possess a relatively collectivist attitude and therefore accepts gifts with a reserved demeanor.
   So, with more than 200,000 people expected for this season's Canton Trade Fair, knowing a few tips about gift-giving might lead to lower prices and the elimination of the 30% down payment (we hope!) And, of course, an increase in your guangxi.Discretion, savvy, know-how, and an adherence to the following tips will make you a seasoned Sinophile. . .

  *As a sign of courtesy and respect, always use both hands to present or receive a gift.
  *When presenting gifts to business partners, always stress you're giving it on behalf of "your company".
  *Business negotiations must be concluded before gifts are ?exchanged to eliminate the appearance of bribery.
  *Like almost every event, be it dining or simple greeting, always honor the most senior person.
  *It is fine to display your company logo on the gift so it appears to be a form of advertising.
  *Never give gifts in the absence of a witness.
  *Always explain the meaning behind the gift. Do not take any photographs unless it's a symbolic "group" gift.
 * A gift's value should be commensurate to the level of business dealings. There are times when an expensive gift can fits an ?occasion, but an overly extravagant one may create some ?complications or embarrassment. Seek advice first.
  *To avoid the loss of "face", do not be too frugal with your choice of gift otherwise you will be seen as an 'iron rooster', i.e. getting a good gift out of you is like getting a feather out of a steel bird.
  *If you have several gifts to present, ensure that gifts given to people of the same level of importance, otherwise it may lead to strained relationships. In short, the more senior the person, the more expensive the gift.
  *The Chinese will decline a gift around three times before finally accepting, so as not to appear greedy. Persist! (You will be expected to go through the same routine yourself.)
  *Once the gift is accepted, express sincere gratitude in both English and Chinese. If you can honestly say thanks in both ?langauges you will be considered a gentleman/gentlewoman.
  *Do not expect gifts to be opened in the presence of the giver. This eliminates any concern that the recipient's face might show any disappointment with the gift. (If only the West had the same appreciation at gift-giving time.) This also indicates that it is the thought that counts, and not the material value.

Appreciated gifts

  *A good cognac or other fine liqueur.
  *A fine pen (but not a pen with red ink, as this often symbolizes the severing of ties, yikes!)
  *Stamps, if the recipient is a stamp collector.
  *A very good brand of cigarettes and a cigarette lighter, if the recipient is a smoker.
  *Items from your home country or city, such as handicrafts, souvenirs or hard-to-find foodstuffs.

Avoid at your peril

Clocks! Straw sandals! handkerchiefs! Pure white flowers! Sharp objects! You should also steer clear of the number four, for very obvious reasons.

Tips when buying

  *Business entertaining is considered more appropriate than a gift. It is often more desirable to host a dinner in reciprocation for a ?banquet previously hosted by the counterpart.
  *Always ask for advice. The Chinese will impart knowledge and maybe even escort you themselves to a decent gift shop.