> How stable is the political situation? China is a fairly stable and predictable political environment.

Political risk i n China is relatively low compared with other emerging countries. > does the political situation affects businesses in and out of the china? There is no political risk but there is a problem with "transparency in rules an d other aspects of doing business, which make it challenging for a foreign investor. This transparency ca uses a lot of issues with foreign companies for example "corporate filings and accounts are treated in different ways. > Is it appropriate to talk politics in social or business situations in china? It's inappropriate to discuss politics or religion in social and business situat ions anywhere in the world. Chinese people are easily offended by political comments directed at their government. never ta lk about anything that could inflame personal beliefs or opinions. When you are making negative statements about thei r government they will react as if the comments are being made about them. > Do people value competitiveness or cooperation? In China, teamwork and cooperation skills are paramount. > Is money or a gift expected in exchange for arranging business transactions in china? Unlike many countries, the giving of gifts does not carry any negative connotati ons when doing business in China. In China "exchange of gifts at the end of a business meeting is common, either o ne small gift or a larger gift for the group". Like in the United States a gift is often refus ed a couple times then taken to be polite. > Is politeness is more important then factual honesty in business? In China, honesty & hard work rank highest but their cultures give great value t o politeness. politeness and factual honesty at the same time is important in business transactions. people uses trust to bas e transactions and deals. You have to create a relationship with the clients before getting to business. It depends on the priorities of the people you are working with. People who beli eve image is important will prefer politeness, but those whose focus is the matter-of-fact workings of thin gs will probably appreciate factual honesty. Gift giving Gifts are not usually exchanged at a first meeting. Quality writing pens are considered favored gifts. Do not give: knives, scissors, letter openers, clo cks, straw sandals, a stork or crane, handkerchiefs, any thing white, blue or black, and anything in groups of fou r Gifts should always be nicely wrapped.

Gifts are not to be opened right away unless promp ted to do so. Receive and give gifts with two hands. It is polite to refuse a gift several times before accepting. > What are the generally accepted working hours? Generally accepted working hours in China are about eight hours a day. The "Chinese government stipulates a five-day workweek with no more than 8 hour s a day and no more than 44 hours a week in the Labor Law of People's Republic of China" They usually start working at ei ght in the morning and end their workdays at eight at night. Which is actually being at work for ten hours but, in China people usually get a two hour lunch