Essential info for China
Time: The local time in China is GMT +8.
Electricity: The electrical current in China is 220 volts, 50Hz. Different types of plugs are used but the two-pin flat blade and oblique three-pin flat blade plugs are common and expats should make sure they have compatible adapters.
Language: The official language in China is Mandarin Chinese, but there are hundreds of local dialects. English-speaking expats will do well to learn some basic phrases or even take classes in Mandarin Chinese.
Language: The official language in China is Mandarin Chinese, but there are hundreds of local dialects. English-speaking expats will do well to learn some basic phrases or even take classes in Mandarin Chinese.
Safety: Expats should note that China is generally safe and what little crime exists is generally petty crime, such as theft and pick-pocketing. Foreigners should take extra care at places like street markets, tourist sites and popular expat bar areas at night.
Expats should also be aware of the risk of heavy rains and typhoons which cause hundreds of deaths each year, particularly around the areas bordering the Yangtze River in central, southern and western China.
Expats should also be aware of the risk of heavy rains and typhoons which cause hundreds of deaths each year, particularly around the areas bordering the Yangtze River in central, southern and western China.
Local Customs: The most important aspect in Chinese society is the idea of "Face", a complicated concept which most closely means honour, prestige and integrity. Expats should make concerted attempts to give face, enable people to save face, and to never cause someone to lose face.
Most interaction in China is established through connections. Upon introduction, stand up, and remain standing throughout the introduction. A handshake is acceptable, otherwise a bow or a nod will suffice. If doing business, this is the time to exchange business cards. Never open gifts in front of the giver, unless the giver firmly insists.
When addressing Chinese people, expats should do so beginning with their surname, using official titles. Western politeness is a foreign concept to Chinese and they don’t really bother with pleasantries. Furthermore, the Chinese don't like to be touched by strangers, even if their concept of space is much less than that in the West.
Foreigners should carry ID at all times as spot checks are common and failure to show evidence in ID will result in a fine or detention.
Most interaction in China is established through connections. Upon introduction, stand up, and remain standing throughout the introduction. A handshake is acceptable, otherwise a bow or a nod will suffice. If doing business, this is the time to exchange business cards. Never open gifts in front of the giver, unless the giver firmly insists.
When addressing Chinese people, expats should do so beginning with their surname, using official titles. Western politeness is a foreign concept to Chinese and they don’t really bother with pleasantries. Furthermore, the Chinese don't like to be touched by strangers, even if their concept of space is much less than that in the West.
Foreigners should carry ID at all times as spot checks are common and failure to show evidence in ID will result in a fine or detention.
Business: Doing business in China is dominated by the idea of connections (Guanxi). Much time is devoted to cultivating a relationship, as the Chinese will rarely do business with people they don't 'know'. Be patient and refrain from rushing proceedings. Seniority and hierarchy are important in China, and you should show respect accordingly. Do be punctual and dress formally, and modestly. Print business cards in English and Chinese and exchange with both hands at the beginning of a meeting. If you do not speak the local language it is considered polite to bring your own interpreter.
Communications: Expats relocating to China should note that the outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa) and the international access code for China is +86. International Direct Dialling is available in most major cities and phone cards are widely available. Expats will find that mobile phone networks are very advanced and mobile phone operators use GSM 900 networks and have roaming agreements with most non-North American international operators. Internet cafés are available in most main towns and high speed broadband ADLS Internet is found in most major cities.
