Hong Kong, together with Macau, is a special administrative area of the People’s Republic of China. The area is one of the most densely populated regions in the world and the approximately seven million people that reside there have to deal with a busy centre and lots of hustle and bustle to go with it. Companies in Hong Kong benefit from having access to the largest market in the world but they do not have the difficulty that the Chinese companies have to deal with.

Hong Kong enjoys a different political and economical system to that of China and this has helped them become one of the main center of international finance in the world. Due to the nature of population density areas, the offices and apartments are compact and this has led to Hong Kong being named the “most vertical place in the world” and the view at night is something to behold. The free trade and low taxation that the region enjoys has been a major factor behind why so many companies have looked to expand into Hong Kong.

When looking to expand into new markets, it is important to ensure that all your business processes are in place and to ensure they are you can rely on the leading courier services online that are here to make sure that every parcel you sent is done so in the most cost effective and efficient manner possible. Whenever you need to send a parcel to Hong Kong, you can rest assured that you are going to be doing so in the way that saves you and your company as much time and hassle as possible.

The region has seen rapid growth and development over the last 30 years and its importance on world trade and finance cannot be understated. With the freest economy in the world, international trade is certainly welcomed in the country and this has been taken advantage of on a regular basis. Although the climate for doing business in the region is excellent, it may not be ideal for those foreigners who are looking to make a change in their lifestyle.

This is because Hong Kong is ranked as the fifth most expensive place to live for foreigners behind Tokyo, Osaka, Moscow and Geneva. Therefore, if you are planning a move to the area, then planning your budget and making sure you stay on top of things is very important.

Hong Kong business culture is a rare balance of Western capitalist thinking and the East’s belief system. Chinese people are particularly conscious of punctuality. Superstitious Chinese practices like putting bagua mirrors to deflect evil spirits are important among business establishments. The eastern concept of energy flow like the Feng Shui are definitely taken seriously because businesses spend a lot of money consulting experts just to ensure that construction projects are positively oriented towards that which attracts most luck. Do not be surprised also if floor numbers in buildings lack the number 4 because in the Chinese language, it is similar to the word “die” which has negative connotation for them. As a busy business center, Hong Kong cuisine is also a mixture of eastern and western characteristics. Fast food chains blend with restaurants that serve the traditional Hong Kong dishes.

It is important to learn the Hong Kong business culture before doing any business in the country because it will definitely affect your relations with them. Know that Chinese culture is the dominant business and social influence in the environment. The pace of life in the country is hectic and its residents are highly entrepreneurial with strong commercial instincts. Chinese are also hardworking and very competitive. They are also very conscious of their face or image that is why they highly value their education which according to them will ensure one’s social and economic mobility. Families are hierarchical and members are committed to upholding the family’s honor through loyalty, respect and obligations. Introductions and connections are not essential in Hong Kong although they help in establishing credibility for business. Hiring a local representative to initially develop the business is advisable.

It is good to learn how to do the proper Chinese way of greeting so as to show respect for the culture and establish a good impression on them. Bowing is their way of greeting and when a handshake is made be gentle because they are not used to close and intimate interactions with foreigners or strangers for that matter. Because they recognize seniority, be conscious of greeting the most senior member first.

Hong Kong Business Culture may also be described as results or role-oriented rather than that of the Western values of personal and social growth. Avoid confrontation and aggression. Remember to use language diplomatically. Refrain from directly refusing anyone by saying “I will try” or “I will see.” Be modest in all you behavior and also keep you calm.

Gift giving is also a part of doing business in Hong Kong. It helps establish or maintain relationships. Avoid giving clocks, books, green hats and anything unwrapped or wrapped in blue. Gift money in a red envelope is known as hong boa. Accept gifts with both hands and remember that gifts are to be reciprocated. A meal could also be a form of gift for the Chinese.