Communism brought skepticism in gift giving, and offering gifts to government officials became illegal. The importance of gift giving in China is slowly returning, however, no set guidelines have been established. In order to avoid your gift being perceived as a bribe, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:
+ Present group gifts. This is seen as a "company presenting a gift to a company," and not as a bribe to one individual from that company.
+ Display your company logo on the gift so it appears to be a form of advertising.
+ Avoid giving highly expensive gifts.
Also remember that:
+ It is in the Chinese culture to refuse a gift, sometimes repeatedly. It is expected, however, that the giver will persist and the recipient's acceptance will eventually follow.
+ As in the Japanese culture, it is proper etiquette to present gifts with two hands.
Be sure to avoid:
+ Giving clocks as gifts. This has long been regarded as a gift giving faux pas. The word for "clock" in Chinese is similar to the word for "death." China's younger generation is not as superstitious about this, so this will eventually no longer hold true. Unless you are certain your Chinese colleague will not be offended by receiving a clock, this gift idea is better avoided.
+ Colors such as white, blue or black are associated with funerals. Do not wrap gifts in these colors. Red, yellow and pink are seen as joyful colors, and are perfectly acceptable for gift wrap. Just remember not to write anything in red ink, as this symbolizes the severing of a relationship.
+ Sharp objects such as knives, letter openers, or scissors. These, too, imply the severance of a relationship.
+ Giving gifts in single or odd numbers. This implies loneliness or separation. On the other hand, gifts given in pairs are highly appropriate, as it equates to good luck.