1) Do study up on the places you wish to visit – it will not only bring knowledge but also an appetizer for future travel.
2) If you are male introduced to a lady or a grown-up girl, don't take the initiative of offering a handshake. If she extends her hand, you must reciprocate, but don't be the first to extend your hand. If you are female and are being introduced to a male: it is up to you – the female – to take the initiative for a handshake. The rule of thumb is: the female extends her hand first, and the male reciprocates.
3) The Western practice of a peck on the cheek as a form of greeting a lady or a grown up girl is JUST NOT IN when you are in India unless you happen to be in 'Westernised Indian' circles or in the company of people in the glamour industry such as models and beauty queens (even then, DON'T take the initiative if you are male).
3) The namastay is a local form of greeting. It involves the joining of your palms as during prayer in church – well, not exactly, but it can pass (in church, the two thumbs are crossed, in the Indian 'namastay', the thumbs join but remain parallel to each other: this is only for information as the difference is not visible to the person in front of you).
4) If you find the lady is not extending a hand shake, go for the namastay. Even with men, the namastay can be an excellent little PR gimmick! Follow it up with a kaise hai (how are you?) and you have broken the first block of ice if one there was!
5) Politics can be freely discussed in India and most people will have an opinion which they will not mind being contradicted. But avoid discussing religion, especially with Muslims who form 11% of India's population.
6) Avoid visiting Kashmir in the extreme north as well as areas in the extreme north-east. Foreigners, especially West Europeans ands Americans, are at risk to hostage-taking by terrorists in those areas. The rest of India is safe haven for everybody.
7) Don't trust strangers with money. Trust your hotel, but not people you may bump into on the streets.
8) If somebody has invited you home for dinner, carry with you a box of sweets or at least a chocolate bar for the kid.
9) If you are buying from roadside stalls or hawkers, bargain you must. Start by offering half the price they ask for and settle for 60 per cent. Don't bargain in proper shops especially those that display "Fixed Price" signs: that will be seen as bad manners.
10) Never buy food from roadside stalls or mobile canteens. Not that they are bad, but your system may not be accustomed to such delicacies and you might end up spending more time in the loo than normal.
11) Drink bottled water only. Even many Indians who have lived out of India for a few years sometimes suffer stomach upsets on drinking local tap water. If there is no alternative to tap water, ensure it is boiled.
12) Don't offer bribes to get any job done. Bribe-taking and bribe-giving are a common practice in India but they are intended to speed up things or win a favour that you are not entitled to. Plan well in advance. Use consultants or trade and industry associations. If you expect favours, let them come free or not at all. Warn anyone (even in government) who asks you for a bribe that you would report him to the Anti-Corruption Bureau or the nearest police-station. If he persists, do it discreetly so that he can be caught red-handed.
13) Indian English has its own delights especially to foreigners of English nativity. Don't show amusement at the different Indian accents and choice of words. This does not take away from the fact that many Indians speak and write better English than many native English speakers.
14) Many Indians are in the habit of shaking their head in the course of conversation or taking instructions. Don't show amusement if you witness this.
15) Avoid offers of spiritual salvation and magic remedies from saints, godmen and quacks. There may be some spiritually elevated people in India, but there is no way you can distinguish the genuine ones from the crooks. If you are seriously interested in these aspects of India, take help from someone you know or visit one of the respected spiritual organisations in India.
16) Avoid driving in India unless you have been trained on Indian roads.
Source - http://www.indiaonestop.com
Sunday, August 8, 2010
China - Do's and Dont's
Public Behavior
• If you are introduced and people clap, it is considered polite to clap along
• Avoid expansive hand gestures when speaking
• Hand holding by people of the same sex is common
RELATIONSHIPS & FACE
Guanxi
• With a good network of contacts in China, almost anything can be accomplished-- Guanxi is how things get done.
• Reciprocity. This refers to the exchanging of favors between individuals and groups. People will presume upon those with whom they have guanxi, and understand the need for returning favors
Mianzi
• Face is important in any culture, but extremely so in China
• Losing face, saving face and giving face is very important and should be taken into consideration at all times. Loosing your temper, confronting someone, putting someone on the spot, arrogant behavior, or failing to accord proper respect can cause a loss of face
Using English Effectively
• English speaking is more and more common and is now considered the lingua franca of business in many countries
• Remember that this does not mean that people in other countries will speak English at the same level of competency as you do, it is probably their second or third language
• Accents and speech patterns affect clarity, even for native speakers (remember that your audience may have learned British English, rather than American English, and that their instructor was most likely not a native speaker)
• Speak slowly
• Enunciate and pronounce words clearly
• Use visual aids if you are making a presentation
• Avoid jokes, slang and colloquialisms
GIFT GIVING
• Although it may seem straight forward, giving gifts is an art form
• Choosing proper gifts will challenge your perceptions of what is and is not proper
• Do not expect that a gift will be opened immediately; however, sometimes that may not be the case
• Do not expect that the gift will be accepted right away. You may have to offer it a few times before it is accepted
• Take a camera to take pictures during gift exchange
• Even if your company color is green, or you travel to China over St. Patrick's Day and want to introduce people to the holiday, never give a Chinese gentleman a green hat. It is associated with adultery.
• Because the number four in Chinese is a homonym for the word 'death' avoid giving things to people in groups of four.
• Red is a color of good fortune. But never give someone something written in red ink as it implies the end of a relationship.
• Do not give clocks. Clocks are associated with death.
• Do not give knives, scissors, letter openers, etc. It implies the severing of a relationship
• Avoid white as it is associated with funerals
• If you give gifts, give gifts to everyone in the room. If not, give the gift to the most important person in the room.
Drinking Etiquette
• If you drink, learn to say gan bei because you will be saying it frequently.
• If you do not drink, it is often best to simply tell your host and then do not ever touch the stuff.
• Make sure you pour tea for others before filling your own cup
• If you are the guest, wait to be seated as hierarchy is involved
• Generally, the most senior person is at the head of the table with the guest of honor directly to the left
• Eating usually begins once the host offers the first drink.
• The host will usually serve the most valued guest with a selection of the best food on the table
• Business is usually not discussed during the meal
• The host will usually order more food than can possibly be eaten as the host will lose face if it is eaten in its entirety
• If you want rice with your meal, you will often need to request it, as rice is generally served at the end at dinner banquets
Dining Etiquette
• Never place your chopsticks in a bowl of rice as pictured above.
• Use the serving chopsticks or turn your chopsticks around when use them to server others
• Avoid dropping chopsticks as it is considered bad luck.
• Smoking is common and if you smoke, offer cigarettes to others before you smoke. However, increasingly, fewer people are smoking in China
• The dinner is coming to a close when fruit is served. The host will not initiate a guest's departure, so make preparations to leave at this point
• If you are asked to dinner, it will be expected that you reciprocate. Be sure not to outdo your host.
Source - http://www.usccc.org
• If you are introduced and people clap, it is considered polite to clap along
• Avoid expansive hand gestures when speaking
• Hand holding by people of the same sex is common
RELATIONSHIPS & FACE
Guanxi
• With a good network of contacts in China, almost anything can be accomplished-- Guanxi is how things get done.
• Reciprocity. This refers to the exchanging of favors between individuals and groups. People will presume upon those with whom they have guanxi, and understand the need for returning favors
Mianzi
• Face is important in any culture, but extremely so in China
• Losing face, saving face and giving face is very important and should be taken into consideration at all times. Loosing your temper, confronting someone, putting someone on the spot, arrogant behavior, or failing to accord proper respect can cause a loss of face
Using English Effectively
• English speaking is more and more common and is now considered the lingua franca of business in many countries
• Remember that this does not mean that people in other countries will speak English at the same level of competency as you do, it is probably their second or third language
• Accents and speech patterns affect clarity, even for native speakers (remember that your audience may have learned British English, rather than American English, and that their instructor was most likely not a native speaker)
• Speak slowly
• Enunciate and pronounce words clearly
• Use visual aids if you are making a presentation
• Avoid jokes, slang and colloquialisms
GIFT GIVING
• Although it may seem straight forward, giving gifts is an art form
• Choosing proper gifts will challenge your perceptions of what is and is not proper
• Do not expect that a gift will be opened immediately; however, sometimes that may not be the case
• Do not expect that the gift will be accepted right away. You may have to offer it a few times before it is accepted
• Take a camera to take pictures during gift exchange
• Even if your company color is green, or you travel to China over St. Patrick's Day and want to introduce people to the holiday, never give a Chinese gentleman a green hat. It is associated with adultery.
• Because the number four in Chinese is a homonym for the word 'death' avoid giving things to people in groups of four.
• Red is a color of good fortune. But never give someone something written in red ink as it implies the end of a relationship.
• Do not give clocks. Clocks are associated with death.
• Do not give knives, scissors, letter openers, etc. It implies the severing of a relationship
• Avoid white as it is associated with funerals
• If you give gifts, give gifts to everyone in the room. If not, give the gift to the most important person in the room.
Drinking Etiquette
• If you drink, learn to say gan bei because you will be saying it frequently.
• If you do not drink, it is often best to simply tell your host and then do not ever touch the stuff.
• Make sure you pour tea for others before filling your own cup
• If you are the guest, wait to be seated as hierarchy is involved
• Generally, the most senior person is at the head of the table with the guest of honor directly to the left
• Eating usually begins once the host offers the first drink.
• The host will usually serve the most valued guest with a selection of the best food on the table
• Business is usually not discussed during the meal
• The host will usually order more food than can possibly be eaten as the host will lose face if it is eaten in its entirety
• If you want rice with your meal, you will often need to request it, as rice is generally served at the end at dinner banquets
Dining Etiquette
• Never place your chopsticks in a bowl of rice as pictured above.
• Use the serving chopsticks or turn your chopsticks around when use them to server others
• Avoid dropping chopsticks as it is considered bad luck.
• Smoking is common and if you smoke, offer cigarettes to others before you smoke. However, increasingly, fewer people are smoking in China
• The dinner is coming to a close when fruit is served. The host will not initiate a guest's departure, so make preparations to leave at this point
• If you are asked to dinner, it will be expected that you reciprocate. Be sure not to outdo your host.
Source - http://www.usccc.org
China - Setting up Business
This table summarizes the procedures and costs associated with setting up a business in China.
STANDARDIZED COMPANY
Legal Form: Limited Liability Company
City: Shanghai
Registration Requirements:
Procedure 1.
Obtain a notice of Pre-Approval of the Company Name
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
RMB 80
Comment:
The applicant picks up the application form of company name pre-approval from the local Administration of Industry and Commerce (“AIC”) or downloads such form from AIC’s website. With the form, the applicant files the following documents: Application Form of Company Name Pre-approval signed by the applicant, who shall be one of the shareholders of the company; and b. Identity Card of the applicant. Effective from July 1, 2004, enterprise name registration must follow the amended SAIC rules, i.e., the new Enterprise Name Registration Administration Implementing Measures ( Qi ye ming cheng deng ji guan li shi shi ban fa). According the to new registration rules, if the applicant goes directly to the AIC, the approval or rejection of name shall be given on the spot. This is newly regulated by Article 24 of the Enterprise Name Registration Administration Implementation Measures. This rule is effective since July 1, 2004 and is implemented in practice.
Procedure 2.
Open a preliminary bank account; Deposit fund in the account and obtain the certificate of deposit
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
The Company Law was modified on October 27th, 2005 and became effective on January 1st, 2006. Art. 26 lowers the minimum capital requirement to RMB 30,000, and also provides that the shareholders, after paying the required amount of initial capital contribution (at least 20% of the registered capital of the proposed company and shall not be lower than the legal requirements for the registered capital for certain industries), may pay off their remaining capital contributions, if any, within 2 years after the establishment of the company. Art.27 provides the form of the capital contribution. According to it, if the initial capital contribution is in the form of cash, the shareholders need to open a preliminary bank account in the bank after obtaining the pre-approval of the company name and shall deposit the initial capital contribution into the bank account. If the initial capital contribution is in form of non-monetary assets, the shareholder shall transfer the property title of the assets to the company and the value of such assets shall be appraised. The initial capital contribution shall be verified by legally established verification institutes. The revised Company Law enables shareholders to contribute up to 70 per cent of registered capital of a LLC in “non-monetary assets which can be monetarily valued and legally transferred”.
Procedure 3.
Obtain registration certification “Business License of Enterprise Legal Person” with SAIC or local equivalent
Time to complete:
1 day (if done in person); 14 days if by mail
Cost to complete:
0.08% of registered capital (registration fee) + RMB 10 for copy of Business License + RMB 500 for public announcement (see comment)
Comment:
Company needs to file (1) Notice of Approval of Company Name, (2) lease or other proof of company office, (3) Capital Verification Certificate or Appraisal Report, (4) the filled-out application form, (5) articles of association executed by each of the shareholders, (6) representation authorization,(7) identity cards of shareholders; identification documents of officers; (8)the documents certifying the name, address of the directors, supervisors and officers and their appointment documents; (9) identification documents and appointment documents of the company’s legal representative; (10) if the initial contribution is non-monetary assets, the document certifying transfer of the property title of such assets; (11) and other documents as required by the authorities. Within 15 working days from receipt of all the documents, AIC should decide to approve the company registration or not. After the company registers, it can have its seal carved, open formal bank accounts, and apply for taxation registration. In accordance with the new administrative rules, application forms may be downloaded from websites of local government authorities. Statutory time limits were introduced for acceptance of application documents and decision on registration, which are different depending on the form of application. In practice, normally the decision will be made within 15 days of receipt of the application. Documentation requirements for company registration were standardized. Now the documentation requirements are required to be publicly displayed by the registry. Art.52 provides that as to an application that is filed in such forms as letter, telegraph, telex, fax, electronic data exchange or email, the company registry shall, within 5 days as of receiving the relevant application documents and materials, decide whether or not to accept the application; where the application documents and materials are not complete nor meet the statutary requirements, the registry shall within 5 days, inform the applicant of all the contents subject to supplementation and correction Art.54 provides that where the organ in charge of company registration needs to carry out any verification on the application documents and materials, it shall decide whether or not to approve the registration within 15 days as of acceptance; where in other cases, the organ shall decide to approve the registration on the spot or within 15 days as of acceptance. Art.55 provides that Where the organ decides to approve the registration of a company, it shall produce a Notice on Approval for Establishment Registration and inform the applicant to collect its business license within 10 days.. Art.59 provides that from March 1 to June 30 each year, the organ in charge of company registration shall carry out an annual examination of companies. Publication fees depend on the size and place of announcement. Small businesses may only spend RMB 320, while big companies my pay around RMB 1,250 for their public announcement.
Procedure 4.
Obtain the approval to make a company seal from the police department
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
If all the shareholders are individual investors, the registration file shall include the duplicate of business license (original and one copy) and the ID card of the legal representative. If approved, a notice to make the company seal will be issued to the company.
Procedure 5.
Make a company seal
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
RMB 300
Comment:
Company shall have the seal carved at the seal company (the seal company should hold a Shanghai Special Industry Permit (company seal carving) (《上海市特种行业许可证》（公章刻制业）). It costs RMB 70-300, depending on the design and quality.
Procedure 6.
Obtain the Organization Code Certificate issued by the Quality and Technology Supervision Bureau
Time to complete:
5 days
Cost to complete:
RMB 148
Comment:
Company files the following documents with Shangai Organization Code Management Center (a branch of Quality and Technology Supervision Bureau) to apply for Organization Code Certificate within 30 days of obtaining the business license: 1) business license (original and 1 copy)；2) Identity card of the legal representative (1 copy);3) filled-out application form.
Procedure 7.
Register with the local statistics bureau
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
RMB 50
Comment:
Company shall apply for statistics registration within 30 days of obtaining the business license. To apply for statistics registration, company shall submit the following documents to local statistic bureau: business license (one copy), organization code certificate (one copy) and the filled-out statistics registration form.
Procedure 8.
Register for both State and local tax with the tax bureau (开业税务登记)
Time to complete:
10 days
Cost to complete:
RMB 100
Comment:
The procedures for tax registration have been simplified since 2004 with the implementation of “Administration Measures of Tax Registration”, issued by the State Taxation Bureau. While there are still two separate taxation authorities, namely the state taxation bureau and local taxation bureau, company founders are only required to file tax registration once to either of these two authorities. Statutory time limit is 30 days from the date of receiving the registration application. The company needs to fill up tax registration form and initial tax reporting forms. Together with the said forms, the company submits for review the following documents: the duplicate of business license (original and one copy); organization code certificate (original and one copy); ID card of the legal representative (original and one copy); ID card of the taxation personnel (original and one copy); company seal and financial seal; office lease agreement and receipt for rent paid; article of association (original and one copy) and account opening certificate issued by the bank (original and one copy). A hotline by Shanghai Taxation Bureau started working on January 1, 2006, telephone number is 12366. Concerns and questions can be put forward through this hotline.
Procedure 9.
Open a formal bank account of the company and transfer the registered capital to the account
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
The procedures and documents for a bank account may vary depending on each bank’s practice.
Procedure 10.
Apply for the authorization to print or purchase financial invoices/receipts (发票购用印制簿)
Time to complete:
10 days
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
After state /local tax registration and obtaining tax registration certificate, company shall apply to relevant taxation office (state/local taxation separately) for approval to purchase and issuance of financial invoices. The taxation authority will issue the Invoice Purchasing Book if it agrees to grant the company such qualification. The following documents shall be submitted for the book: i) tax registration certificate (1 copy); ii) Identity card of taxation personnel (1 copy); iii) application forms; iv) models of invoice seal
Procedure 11.
Purchase uniform invoices (申请领购发票)
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
RMB 1.05 – 1.67 per invoice book
Comment:
Obtain and fill out the application form for purchase invoice (购用统一发票申请单). Submit the form and the authorization book (from previous procedure) to the tax office. In China, the VAT and ordinary invoices are published by the tax authority for anti-forgery reasons, with a few exceptions. Tax payers normally buy VAT and ordinary invoices from the tax authority.
Procedure 12.
File for recruitment registration with local Career Service Center (招工登记备案)
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
The local Career Service Center is sponsored by the local government. A new company shall register within 30 days of recruiting employees. The following documents shall be submitted: business license (original and copy); organization code certificate (original and copy); company seal; Identity cards of employees and their employment agreements (copies)
Procedure 13.
Register with Social Welfare Insurance Center (社保登记)
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
The company shall register for the payment of social insurance for their employees with local social insurance office within 30 days of establishment. The registration package shall include: the filled-out social insurance registration form, duplicate of business license (original and one copy), organization code certificate (original and one copy) and the company seal. After all the abovementioned documents have been verified, the authorities will issue a notice to open a social insurance account for the company and the company shall then apply to open a special account at the bank designated. The local social insurance office will issue the social insurance registration card to the company upon the bank’s notification that the account has been opened.
Source - World Bank Group
STANDARDIZED COMPANY
Legal Form: Limited Liability Company
City: Shanghai
Registration Requirements:
Procedure 1.
Obtain a notice of Pre-Approval of the Company Name
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
RMB 80
Comment:
The applicant picks up the application form of company name pre-approval from the local Administration of Industry and Commerce (“AIC”) or downloads such form from AIC’s website. With the form, the applicant files the following documents: Application Form of Company Name Pre-approval signed by the applicant, who shall be one of the shareholders of the company; and b. Identity Card of the applicant. Effective from July 1, 2004, enterprise name registration must follow the amended SAIC rules, i.e., the new Enterprise Name Registration Administration Implementing Measures ( Qi ye ming cheng deng ji guan li shi shi ban fa). According the to new registration rules, if the applicant goes directly to the AIC, the approval or rejection of name shall be given on the spot. This is newly regulated by Article 24 of the Enterprise Name Registration Administration Implementation Measures. This rule is effective since July 1, 2004 and is implemented in practice.
Procedure 2.
Open a preliminary bank account; Deposit fund in the account and obtain the certificate of deposit
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
The Company Law was modified on October 27th, 2005 and became effective on January 1st, 2006. Art. 26 lowers the minimum capital requirement to RMB 30,000, and also provides that the shareholders, after paying the required amount of initial capital contribution (at least 20% of the registered capital of the proposed company and shall not be lower than the legal requirements for the registered capital for certain industries), may pay off their remaining capital contributions, if any, within 2 years after the establishment of the company. Art.27 provides the form of the capital contribution. According to it, if the initial capital contribution is in the form of cash, the shareholders need to open a preliminary bank account in the bank after obtaining the pre-approval of the company name and shall deposit the initial capital contribution into the bank account. If the initial capital contribution is in form of non-monetary assets, the shareholder shall transfer the property title of the assets to the company and the value of such assets shall be appraised. The initial capital contribution shall be verified by legally established verification institutes. The revised Company Law enables shareholders to contribute up to 70 per cent of registered capital of a LLC in “non-monetary assets which can be monetarily valued and legally transferred”.
Procedure 3.
Obtain registration certification “Business License of Enterprise Legal Person” with SAIC or local equivalent
Time to complete:
1 day (if done in person); 14 days if by mail
Cost to complete:
0.08% of registered capital (registration fee) + RMB 10 for copy of Business License + RMB 500 for public announcement (see comment)
Comment:
Company needs to file (1) Notice of Approval of Company Name, (2) lease or other proof of company office, (3) Capital Verification Certificate or Appraisal Report, (4) the filled-out application form, (5) articles of association executed by each of the shareholders, (6) representation authorization,(7) identity cards of shareholders; identification documents of officers; (8)the documents certifying the name, address of the directors, supervisors and officers and their appointment documents; (9) identification documents and appointment documents of the company’s legal representative; (10) if the initial contribution is non-monetary assets, the document certifying transfer of the property title of such assets; (11) and other documents as required by the authorities. Within 15 working days from receipt of all the documents, AIC should decide to approve the company registration or not. After the company registers, it can have its seal carved, open formal bank accounts, and apply for taxation registration. In accordance with the new administrative rules, application forms may be downloaded from websites of local government authorities. Statutory time limits were introduced for acceptance of application documents and decision on registration, which are different depending on the form of application. In practice, normally the decision will be made within 15 days of receipt of the application. Documentation requirements for company registration were standardized. Now the documentation requirements are required to be publicly displayed by the registry. Art.52 provides that as to an application that is filed in such forms as letter, telegraph, telex, fax, electronic data exchange or email, the company registry shall, within 5 days as of receiving the relevant application documents and materials, decide whether or not to accept the application; where the application documents and materials are not complete nor meet the statutary requirements, the registry shall within 5 days, inform the applicant of all the contents subject to supplementation and correction Art.54 provides that where the organ in charge of company registration needs to carry out any verification on the application documents and materials, it shall decide whether or not to approve the registration within 15 days as of acceptance; where in other cases, the organ shall decide to approve the registration on the spot or within 15 days as of acceptance. Art.55 provides that Where the organ decides to approve the registration of a company, it shall produce a Notice on Approval for Establishment Registration and inform the applicant to collect its business license within 10 days.. Art.59 provides that from March 1 to June 30 each year, the organ in charge of company registration shall carry out an annual examination of companies. Publication fees depend on the size and place of announcement. Small businesses may only spend RMB 320, while big companies my pay around RMB 1,250 for their public announcement.
Procedure 4.
Obtain the approval to make a company seal from the police department
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
If all the shareholders are individual investors, the registration file shall include the duplicate of business license (original and one copy) and the ID card of the legal representative. If approved, a notice to make the company seal will be issued to the company.
Procedure 5.
Make a company seal
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
RMB 300
Comment:
Company shall have the seal carved at the seal company (the seal company should hold a Shanghai Special Industry Permit (company seal carving) (《上海市特种行业许可证》（公章刻制业）). It costs RMB 70-300, depending on the design and quality.
Procedure 6.
Obtain the Organization Code Certificate issued by the Quality and Technology Supervision Bureau
Time to complete:
5 days
Cost to complete:
RMB 148
Comment:
Company files the following documents with Shangai Organization Code Management Center (a branch of Quality and Technology Supervision Bureau) to apply for Organization Code Certificate within 30 days of obtaining the business license: 1) business license (original and 1 copy)；2) Identity card of the legal representative (1 copy);3) filled-out application form.
Procedure 7.
Register with the local statistics bureau
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
RMB 50
Comment:
Company shall apply for statistics registration within 30 days of obtaining the business license. To apply for statistics registration, company shall submit the following documents to local statistic bureau: business license (one copy), organization code certificate (one copy) and the filled-out statistics registration form.
Procedure 8.
Register for both State and local tax with the tax bureau (开业税务登记)
Time to complete:
10 days
Cost to complete:
RMB 100
Comment:
The procedures for tax registration have been simplified since 2004 with the implementation of “Administration Measures of Tax Registration”, issued by the State Taxation Bureau. While there are still two separate taxation authorities, namely the state taxation bureau and local taxation bureau, company founders are only required to file tax registration once to either of these two authorities. Statutory time limit is 30 days from the date of receiving the registration application. The company needs to fill up tax registration form and initial tax reporting forms. Together with the said forms, the company submits for review the following documents: the duplicate of business license (original and one copy); organization code certificate (original and one copy); ID card of the legal representative (original and one copy); ID card of the taxation personnel (original and one copy); company seal and financial seal; office lease agreement and receipt for rent paid; article of association (original and one copy) and account opening certificate issued by the bank (original and one copy). A hotline by Shanghai Taxation Bureau started working on January 1, 2006, telephone number is 12366. Concerns and questions can be put forward through this hotline.
Procedure 9.
Open a formal bank account of the company and transfer the registered capital to the account
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
The procedures and documents for a bank account may vary depending on each bank’s practice.
Procedure 10.
Apply for the authorization to print or purchase financial invoices/receipts (发票购用印制簿)
Time to complete:
10 days
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
After state /local tax registration and obtaining tax registration certificate, company shall apply to relevant taxation office (state/local taxation separately) for approval to purchase and issuance of financial invoices. The taxation authority will issue the Invoice Purchasing Book if it agrees to grant the company such qualification. The following documents shall be submitted for the book: i) tax registration certificate (1 copy); ii) Identity card of taxation personnel (1 copy); iii) application forms; iv) models of invoice seal
Procedure 11.
Purchase uniform invoices (申请领购发票)
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
RMB 1.05 – 1.67 per invoice book
Comment:
Obtain and fill out the application form for purchase invoice (购用统一发票申请单). Submit the form and the authorization book (from previous procedure) to the tax office. In China, the VAT and ordinary invoices are published by the tax authority for anti-forgery reasons, with a few exceptions. Tax payers normally buy VAT and ordinary invoices from the tax authority.
Procedure 12.
File for recruitment registration with local Career Service Center (招工登记备案)
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
The local Career Service Center is sponsored by the local government. A new company shall register within 30 days of recruiting employees. The following documents shall be submitted: business license (original and copy); organization code certificate (original and copy); company seal; Identity cards of employees and their employment agreements (copies)
Procedure 13.
Register with Social Welfare Insurance Center (社保登记)
Time to complete:
1 day
Cost to complete:
no charge
Comment:
The company shall register for the payment of social insurance for their employees with local social insurance office within 30 days of establishment. The registration package shall include: the filled-out social insurance registration form, duplicate of business license (original and one copy), organization code certificate (original and one copy) and the company seal. After all the abovementioned documents have been verified, the authorities will issue a notice to open a social insurance account for the company and the company shall then apply to open a special account at the bank designated. The local social insurance office will issue the social insurance registration card to the company upon the bank’s notification that the account has been opened.
Source - World Bank Group
China - Do's and Dont's for Business
1. The traditional Chinese “handshake” consists of interlocking the fingers, waving them up and down several times. This greeting is rarely used today (except during festivals, weddings and birthdays of the elderly), instead using the Western-style handshake. A slight bow should often accompanies the handshake, but do not bow from the waist in the style of the Japanese. The Chinese prefer a gentler handshake than the firm grip expected in Western cultures. Physical contact other than a handshake is highly discouraged unless you know someone quite well.
2. Chinese names are “reversed” from Western names. The surname is said first and then the given name. For example, Bruce Lee’s name in Cantonese is Lee Siu Lung. Lee is his surname and spoken first, and the given name (Little Dragon) is spoken second.
Professional, social, and family titles always follow the name as well. Dr. Wong would be Huang Yi Sheng (Huang Doctor). Likewise, Xiansheng (Mr.) and Taitai (Mrs.) are said after the surname. Never call someone by only his last name, and unless specifically asked, do not call someone by his first name; always address your Chinese associates by their surname followed by their title. Also, never address anyone as “Comrade.”
3. Business cards are routinely exchanged at the first meeting. Carry bilingual business cards with one side in Chinese, and the other in English. Include:
* Company’s name
* Job title
* Special qualifications
When receiving a business card, receive it using both hands and compliment the card itself. Instead of immediately putting it away like in the West, keep the card out during the meeting.
4. Color symbolism is very important in China.
* Red is considered lucky and used in many celebrations. However, do not use red ink to write correspondence. That symbolizes the demise of a relationship.
* Yellow is associated with prosperity, and gold is especially appropriate.
* White is symbolic of death, which distinctly contrasts with Western cultures.
5. Lavish gift-giving was once an important aspect of the Chinese culture. Official policy currently forbids gift-giving since such gestures may be considered as bribes. For this reason, approach gift-giving with discretion. The policy is softening, but sometimes a gift will be declined under all circumstances. Be gracious if this circumstance is to occur, and politely withdraw the gift. Smaller. Less expensive items usually avoid this scrutiny.
The Chinese will politely refuse a gift several times to reflect modesty and humility. Accepting a gift quickly is believed to make them seem greedy or aggressive. Opening a present in front of the giver is also judged the same.
6. The Chinese will often avoid eye contact during conversations, especially when talking to the opposite sex or to strangers. Traditionally, it was considered impolite and aggressive to look directly into another’s eyes while talking, and as a sign of respect, the Chinese sometimes lower their eyes slightly when they meet others. The Chinese typically have a “blank” facial expression during introductions. This is not a sign of unhappiness, dissatisfaction, or unfriendliness, but reflects the belief that there is virtue in concealing emotions. Chinese communication is ambiguous, indirect and highly contextual. In conversation, the real meaning, especially if it’s negative, is often implied rather than stated. What is not said is often more important that what is said.
7. Chinese typically share food from a number of dishes placed in the center of the table rather than the Western practice of individually served dishes. Each party at the table will take food from the common plates. Sometimes, in order to show their friendship and sincerity, Chinese hosts will pick from dishes with their own chopsticks or spoons for you, and place food on your plate. Never place your chopsticks upright in a rice bowl; it replicates the bowl of sand or rice with two upright incense sticks that is traditionally placed at the shrine of deceased loved one.
8. When meeting someone for the first time for a China sourcing business meeting, you should engage in general conversation before turning to business. Casual conversation topics in China differ from that of English speakers. It is not impolite to ask about:
* A person’s job
* Annual salary
* Marital/dating status
* Age
Your answers do not have to be extremely specific, but avoiding direct questions will be viewed with wariness and suspicion.
The willingness to answer questions is the important take-away from the conversation. Questions about family tend to be deflected or avoided which is nearly the direct opposite of Western culture.
9. Six, eight and nine are considered lucky numbers, since their homophones have auspicious meanings. Six, liu in Chinese, implies that everything about you will go smoothly. Eight was originally deemed lucky by the Cantonese, since in Cantonese, the word for eight is fa, which means to make a great fortune in the near future. Later, the auspiciousness of eight was taken up by all Chinese. Nine, jiu, implies lasting forever, especially in friendship and marriage. Four and seven are unlucky numbers; the former implies death and the latter means gone.
10. Many common Western gestures are considered rude in China.
* Showing the soles of shoes
* Pointing with the index finger – use a face-up, open hand instead
* Beckoning someone with the index finger – use the hand with fingers motioning downward as in waving instead
* Whistling to get someone’s attention
* Finger snapping
Following the aforementioned 10 tips will add help build relationships with your Chinese business partners and greatly increase the prospects for success of your china outsourcing project.
Source - EzineArticles.com
2. Chinese names are “reversed” from Western names. The surname is said first and then the given name. For example, Bruce Lee’s name in Cantonese is Lee Siu Lung. Lee is his surname and spoken first, and the given name (Little Dragon) is spoken second.
Professional, social, and family titles always follow the name as well. Dr. Wong would be Huang Yi Sheng (Huang Doctor). Likewise, Xiansheng (Mr.) and Taitai (Mrs.) are said after the surname. Never call someone by only his last name, and unless specifically asked, do not call someone by his first name; always address your Chinese associates by their surname followed by their title. Also, never address anyone as “Comrade.”
3. Business cards are routinely exchanged at the first meeting. Carry bilingual business cards with one side in Chinese, and the other in English. Include:
* Company’s name
* Job title
* Special qualifications
When receiving a business card, receive it using both hands and compliment the card itself. Instead of immediately putting it away like in the West, keep the card out during the meeting.
4. Color symbolism is very important in China.
* Red is considered lucky and used in many celebrations. However, do not use red ink to write correspondence. That symbolizes the demise of a relationship.
* Yellow is associated with prosperity, and gold is especially appropriate.
* White is symbolic of death, which distinctly contrasts with Western cultures.
5. Lavish gift-giving was once an important aspect of the Chinese culture. Official policy currently forbids gift-giving since such gestures may be considered as bribes. For this reason, approach gift-giving with discretion. The policy is softening, but sometimes a gift will be declined under all circumstances. Be gracious if this circumstance is to occur, and politely withdraw the gift. Smaller. Less expensive items usually avoid this scrutiny.
The Chinese will politely refuse a gift several times to reflect modesty and humility. Accepting a gift quickly is believed to make them seem greedy or aggressive. Opening a present in front of the giver is also judged the same.
6. The Chinese will often avoid eye contact during conversations, especially when talking to the opposite sex or to strangers. Traditionally, it was considered impolite and aggressive to look directly into another’s eyes while talking, and as a sign of respect, the Chinese sometimes lower their eyes slightly when they meet others. The Chinese typically have a “blank” facial expression during introductions. This is not a sign of unhappiness, dissatisfaction, or unfriendliness, but reflects the belief that there is virtue in concealing emotions. Chinese communication is ambiguous, indirect and highly contextual. In conversation, the real meaning, especially if it’s negative, is often implied rather than stated. What is not said is often more important that what is said.
7. Chinese typically share food from a number of dishes placed in the center of the table rather than the Western practice of individually served dishes. Each party at the table will take food from the common plates. Sometimes, in order to show their friendship and sincerity, Chinese hosts will pick from dishes with their own chopsticks or spoons for you, and place food on your plate. Never place your chopsticks upright in a rice bowl; it replicates the bowl of sand or rice with two upright incense sticks that is traditionally placed at the shrine of deceased loved one.
8. When meeting someone for the first time for a China sourcing business meeting, you should engage in general conversation before turning to business. Casual conversation topics in China differ from that of English speakers. It is not impolite to ask about:
* A person’s job
* Annual salary
* Marital/dating status
* Age
Your answers do not have to be extremely specific, but avoiding direct questions will be viewed with wariness and suspicion.
The willingness to answer questions is the important take-away from the conversation. Questions about family tend to be deflected or avoided which is nearly the direct opposite of Western culture.
9. Six, eight and nine are considered lucky numbers, since their homophones have auspicious meanings. Six, liu in Chinese, implies that everything about you will go smoothly. Eight was originally deemed lucky by the Cantonese, since in Cantonese, the word for eight is fa, which means to make a great fortune in the near future. Later, the auspiciousness of eight was taken up by all Chinese. Nine, jiu, implies lasting forever, especially in friendship and marriage. Four and seven are unlucky numbers; the former implies death and the latter means gone.
10. Many common Western gestures are considered rude in China.
* Showing the soles of shoes
* Pointing with the index finger – use a face-up, open hand instead
* Beckoning someone with the index finger – use the hand with fingers motioning downward as in waving instead
* Whistling to get someone’s attention
* Finger snapping
Following the aforementioned 10 tips will add help build relationships with your Chinese business partners and greatly increase the prospects for success of your china outsourcing project.
Source - EzineArticles.com
Japan - Do's and Dont's for doing Business
1. Take things slowly. English comprehension may not be as good as it appears. Keep interventions simple and straightforward. The same is true if an interpreter is used. Make your interventions in short, easily translatable burst. Don't use sporting metaphors. If you must make jokes, keep them very simple.
2. Construct a short but warm introductory statement for each meeting. This should not be a sales pitch. It should explain why you're there, how long you'll be there, the sort of people you are seeing during your visit, and any particular previous contact you've had with Japan.
3. Then, after you and your interlocutor have made your respective introductory statements, make your sales pitch. But try to use the same sales pitch for all your meetings. In effect, decide what the five or six crucial points you want to get across during your entire visit are, and keep repeating them with all those you meet and in speeches you make.
4. Personal posture is important. Sit firmly in chairs at meetings even if they are armchairs. Don't slump, don't cross your legs and do maintain a fairly formal style. Don't blow your nose noisily. Don't drink tea offered to you before your host has indicated that you do so. Shake hands at the beginning and end of meetings. Never be late. Don't overrun the designated period for the meeting unless your interlocutor clearly wants to extend it. Don't hog the conversation.
5. Do not be worried if you feel you wish to read out a previously prepared note. Your interlocutor may well do this. Indeed, in making an impact, it's often more useful to read out a note and then leave it as an aide memoire.
6. Take business cards with you and have plenty available. They should be printed in Japanese on the reverse.
7. If you are taking gifts, make sure they are well wrapped, if possible professionally. Tatty wrapping paper is a British disease; as are cheap, tatty gifts. They indicate a discourtesy to the recipient. Do not give the gift until the end of the meeting. Don't be fazed if you have given a gift and not received one. You will have scored a point. Don't open the gift after receiving it; if it's not very good it will embarrass your host. If you open it, your host will also have to open yours and that could embarrass you.
8. Don't be afraid of silences. Sit tight and wait for something to happen. It's a common Western flaw in the Far East to feel that silences have to be filled. In negotiations, for instance, this normally means that the Westerner ends up conceding something.
9. Do pay self-evident respect to Japan's extensive history, unique culture and enormous economic achievements. No need to go over the top, but it does no harm to indulge in some well-placed flattery.
10. Enquire about your host's education, background, family, hobbies etc. Give information about your own. This is part of the sharing of contacts which helps build up a relationship.
11. For formal speeches, have a prepared text for distribution beforehand. The audience will follow this as you give it, dramatically improving comprehension. Impromptu or off-the-cuff changes risk being missed, or worse, mistranslated.
12. On taking the first drink at meals, toast your host by raising your glass to him and to those around you before you drink. Don't drink until it is time for those toasts to take place.
Source - https://www.bccjapan.com
2. Construct a short but warm introductory statement for each meeting. This should not be a sales pitch. It should explain why you're there, how long you'll be there, the sort of people you are seeing during your visit, and any particular previous contact you've had with Japan.
3. Then, after you and your interlocutor have made your respective introductory statements, make your sales pitch. But try to use the same sales pitch for all your meetings. In effect, decide what the five or six crucial points you want to get across during your entire visit are, and keep repeating them with all those you meet and in speeches you make.
4. Personal posture is important. Sit firmly in chairs at meetings even if they are armchairs. Don't slump, don't cross your legs and do maintain a fairly formal style. Don't blow your nose noisily. Don't drink tea offered to you before your host has indicated that you do so. Shake hands at the beginning and end of meetings. Never be late. Don't overrun the designated period for the meeting unless your interlocutor clearly wants to extend it. Don't hog the conversation.
5. Do not be worried if you feel you wish to read out a previously prepared note. Your interlocutor may well do this. Indeed, in making an impact, it's often more useful to read out a note and then leave it as an aide memoire.
6. Take business cards with you and have plenty available. They should be printed in Japanese on the reverse.
7. If you are taking gifts, make sure they are well wrapped, if possible professionally. Tatty wrapping paper is a British disease; as are cheap, tatty gifts. They indicate a discourtesy to the recipient. Do not give the gift until the end of the meeting. Don't be fazed if you have given a gift and not received one. You will have scored a point. Don't open the gift after receiving it; if it's not very good it will embarrass your host. If you open it, your host will also have to open yours and that could embarrass you.
8. Don't be afraid of silences. Sit tight and wait for something to happen. It's a common Western flaw in the Far East to feel that silences have to be filled. In negotiations, for instance, this normally means that the Westerner ends up conceding something.
9. Do pay self-evident respect to Japan's extensive history, unique culture and enormous economic achievements. No need to go over the top, but it does no harm to indulge in some well-placed flattery.
10. Enquire about your host's education, background, family, hobbies etc. Give information about your own. This is part of the sharing of contacts which helps build up a relationship.
11. For formal speeches, have a prepared text for distribution beforehand. The audience will follow this as you give it, dramatically improving comprehension. Impromptu or off-the-cuff changes risk being missed, or worse, mistranslated.
12. On taking the first drink at meals, toast your host by raising your glass to him and to those around you before you drink. Don't drink until it is time for those toasts to take place.
Source - https://www.bccjapan.com
Japan - Do's and Dont's
Alcohol
While you can buy everything from beer to whisky from vending machines on just about every street, please remember that the legal drinking age in Japan is 20. Drinking and driving is strictly punished. You may wonder how the drinking age might actually be enforced in a country where alcohol is so readily available from machines: the Japanese assure visitors that consumption by minors is not a problem "because it is illegal". While this may sound like a naive assertion, it makes perfect sense once you've spent any time at all in Japan.
Bowing
People in Japan bow -- a lot. While visitors are not expected to know the complexities of the bow, a few tips will help. First, bow from the waist with the arms straight at your sides. Imitate the bows you receive (there are lots of rules regarding the depth of bows -- social abstractions that take decades to learn). Don't overbow or ignore the greeting. It's better to smile politely and nod your head than to be perceived as rude. After awhile, you'll find yourself bowing automatically (when I encountered a Japanese coworker at my office in Los Angeles, I automatically found myself bowing in greeting).
Etiquette - Guests
The Japanese are gift-givers. If you're invited to their homes (very rare, as the culture tends to entertain in public places), bring a gift -- the hotel's concierge can assist in this matter if necessary. While we are very fond of the gift melon concept, flowers, candy, or alcohol are also appropriate (besides, a good melon in Tokyo can cost a small fortune). For any kindness done, be sure to be profusely thankful. You may feel awkward, but your return gestures will be remembered and appreciated.
Hygiene
Western-style restrooms are generally found in larger department stores and many restaurants. If you encounter a Japanese-style toilet, remember that you squat (or aim) facing the raised hood of the unit (it takes some getting used to, but it is quite sanitary). Always carry tissues or toilet paper with you -- not every restroom stocks these items. And, we've found, paper towels are also scarce in restrooms. It's helpful to note that a current marketing trend involves printing advertisements on small packages of tissue. These packages are usually handed out around the major subway stations and can come in quite handy.
Blowing your nose in public is considered to be bad manners. Excuse yourself and go into the restroom.
While the number of public baths in Tokyo has declined, the custom is still prevalent. Men and women bathe separately except in outdoor hot springs. You will be guided through the process, however the ritual is generally the same in all situations: first, remove your clothing and (after discretely covering the front of your body with your washcloth), proceed to the bath area; before actually entering the bath, you must first wash yourself; basins and stools are situated near faucets -- fill the basin with water, sit on the stool, soap down completely, then rinse off the soap; once you're clean, then you may enter the bath. The water will be very hot (ease in slowly), but after a while, relaxation seeps into your bones and peace enters your soul.
Language - Spoken
Japanese is a phonetic language, and that makes it easy to learn some basic phrases. English is generally read and spoken by younger Japanese people, however, the differences between Japanese and English generally make conversation very difficult. Stick with the basics, carry a phrase book, and try to elicit the help of your concierge for directions and information whenever possible.
Language - Written
Conveniently, the language has three different written formats: kanji, hiragana, and katakana. While kanji is the most complex and not easily learned, a basic understanding of hiragana and katakana will be very useful (both are phonetic, and a basic understanding of them can help in translating menus); most train stations (at least in Tokyo) have the current and upcoming stations indicated in a combination of kanji, hiragana, and romanji -- the Arabic symbol version of the language. With a little training, you too can read menus with ease...slowly, but easily. Power Japanese (a CD-ROM based learning program) is highly recommended as a way to learn the language.
Money
It is considered to be rude to count the change that has been handed back to you after making a purchase. This is a culture that prides itself on its honesty -- it's better to be trusting (plus, are you really in a position to translate the currency quickly enough to make this assessment?). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere (despite the fact that Japan is generally a cash-basis society. ATM machines are also widely available (but play it safe -- before leaving home, visit your bank and change your PIN to a 4-digit number; don't follow my lead by learning that not all machines around the world have the fun little letter/number combination on the keys or that they only accept 4-digit PINs).
Politeness
The Japanese are nothing if not polite. In fact, they are so polite that varying degrees of politeness (or lack thereof) are often used to convey rudeness. One of the great complexities of the Japanese language actually involves the many different words that are often used to communicate the same meaning. Some words are considered to be far more polite than others. Even if you don't intend to speak much Japanese, this is an important concept to understand during your stay in Japan. At all times try your best to be VERY polite.
Shoes
When, where, why, and how shoes are worn in Japan can be confusing. Generally, shoes are not worn in Japanese homes, temples, ryokan, and various other public places (including some restaurants). Again, it's helpful to follow the lead of locals -- don't panic, your shoes won't be stolen while you're off touring a temple. Sometimes, slippers will be provided to guests. These slippers generally fall into two categories: house slippers (for walking the halls, but remove them before walking on tatami) and bathroom slippers (remove the house slippers, put on the bathroom slippers, do whatever you're going to do, remove the bathroom slippers, replace the house slippers, continue on your way).
Tipping
It's true -- tipping is not customary in Japan. Whether in a taxi or restaurant, you pay the price indicated. Note however, that some establishments may add a service charge (10 - 15%) to bills, although this is generally limited to higher priced establishments.
Visiting Cards
Visiting cards, or business cards, are essential for business travelers. The meishi are exchanged in small ceremonies whereby the parties bow and present their cards with both hands to each other (if you're in a business situation, watch your hosts for guidance) -- the recipient of the card should be able to read the information while you're presenting the card, so take care to ensure that the printed information is facing in the correct direction. The concierge at your hotel will be able to help those who don't have cards of their own (or, if you have the available resources, you can save quite a bit of money by printing up the cards on your own before leaving home -- I priced the cards at about 100 for $100).
Source - http://www.moveandstay.jp
While you can buy everything from beer to whisky from vending machines on just about every street, please remember that the legal drinking age in Japan is 20. Drinking and driving is strictly punished. You may wonder how the drinking age might actually be enforced in a country where alcohol is so readily available from machines: the Japanese assure visitors that consumption by minors is not a problem "because it is illegal". While this may sound like a naive assertion, it makes perfect sense once you've spent any time at all in Japan.
Bowing
People in Japan bow -- a lot. While visitors are not expected to know the complexities of the bow, a few tips will help. First, bow from the waist with the arms straight at your sides. Imitate the bows you receive (there are lots of rules regarding the depth of bows -- social abstractions that take decades to learn). Don't overbow or ignore the greeting. It's better to smile politely and nod your head than to be perceived as rude. After awhile, you'll find yourself bowing automatically (when I encountered a Japanese coworker at my office in Los Angeles, I automatically found myself bowing in greeting).
Etiquette - Guests
The Japanese are gift-givers. If you're invited to their homes (very rare, as the culture tends to entertain in public places), bring a gift -- the hotel's concierge can assist in this matter if necessary. While we are very fond of the gift melon concept, flowers, candy, or alcohol are also appropriate (besides, a good melon in Tokyo can cost a small fortune). For any kindness done, be sure to be profusely thankful. You may feel awkward, but your return gestures will be remembered and appreciated.
Hygiene
Western-style restrooms are generally found in larger department stores and many restaurants. If you encounter a Japanese-style toilet, remember that you squat (or aim) facing the raised hood of the unit (it takes some getting used to, but it is quite sanitary). Always carry tissues or toilet paper with you -- not every restroom stocks these items. And, we've found, paper towels are also scarce in restrooms. It's helpful to note that a current marketing trend involves printing advertisements on small packages of tissue. These packages are usually handed out around the major subway stations and can come in quite handy.
Blowing your nose in public is considered to be bad manners. Excuse yourself and go into the restroom.
While the number of public baths in Tokyo has declined, the custom is still prevalent. Men and women bathe separately except in outdoor hot springs. You will be guided through the process, however the ritual is generally the same in all situations: first, remove your clothing and (after discretely covering the front of your body with your washcloth), proceed to the bath area; before actually entering the bath, you must first wash yourself; basins and stools are situated near faucets -- fill the basin with water, sit on the stool, soap down completely, then rinse off the soap; once you're clean, then you may enter the bath. The water will be very hot (ease in slowly), but after a while, relaxation seeps into your bones and peace enters your soul.
Language - Spoken
Japanese is a phonetic language, and that makes it easy to learn some basic phrases. English is generally read and spoken by younger Japanese people, however, the differences between Japanese and English generally make conversation very difficult. Stick with the basics, carry a phrase book, and try to elicit the help of your concierge for directions and information whenever possible.
Language - Written
Conveniently, the language has three different written formats: kanji, hiragana, and katakana. While kanji is the most complex and not easily learned, a basic understanding of hiragana and katakana will be very useful (both are phonetic, and a basic understanding of them can help in translating menus); most train stations (at least in Tokyo) have the current and upcoming stations indicated in a combination of kanji, hiragana, and romanji -- the Arabic symbol version of the language. With a little training, you too can read menus with ease...slowly, but easily. Power Japanese (a CD-ROM based learning program) is highly recommended as a way to learn the language.
Money
It is considered to be rude to count the change that has been handed back to you after making a purchase. This is a culture that prides itself on its honesty -- it's better to be trusting (plus, are you really in a position to translate the currency quickly enough to make this assessment?). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere (despite the fact that Japan is generally a cash-basis society. ATM machines are also widely available (but play it safe -- before leaving home, visit your bank and change your PIN to a 4-digit number; don't follow my lead by learning that not all machines around the world have the fun little letter/number combination on the keys or that they only accept 4-digit PINs).
Politeness
The Japanese are nothing if not polite. In fact, they are so polite that varying degrees of politeness (or lack thereof) are often used to convey rudeness. One of the great complexities of the Japanese language actually involves the many different words that are often used to communicate the same meaning. Some words are considered to be far more polite than others. Even if you don't intend to speak much Japanese, this is an important concept to understand during your stay in Japan. At all times try your best to be VERY polite.
Shoes
When, where, why, and how shoes are worn in Japan can be confusing. Generally, shoes are not worn in Japanese homes, temples, ryokan, and various other public places (including some restaurants). Again, it's helpful to follow the lead of locals -- don't panic, your shoes won't be stolen while you're off touring a temple. Sometimes, slippers will be provided to guests. These slippers generally fall into two categories: house slippers (for walking the halls, but remove them before walking on tatami) and bathroom slippers (remove the house slippers, put on the bathroom slippers, do whatever you're going to do, remove the bathroom slippers, replace the house slippers, continue on your way).
Tipping
It's true -- tipping is not customary in Japan. Whether in a taxi or restaurant, you pay the price indicated. Note however, that some establishments may add a service charge (10 - 15%) to bills, although this is generally limited to higher priced establishments.
Visiting Cards
Visiting cards, or business cards, are essential for business travelers. The meishi are exchanged in small ceremonies whereby the parties bow and present their cards with both hands to each other (if you're in a business situation, watch your hosts for guidance) -- the recipient of the card should be able to read the information while you're presenting the card, so take care to ensure that the printed information is facing in the correct direction. The concierge at your hotel will be able to help those who don't have cards of their own (or, if you have the available resources, you can save quite a bit of money by printing up the cards on your own before leaving home -- I priced the cards at about 100 for $100).
Source - http://www.moveandstay.jp
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Thailand - Do's and Dont's
Thais are known for their tolerance and hospitality, and the average tourist will have no difficulty in adjusting to local customs. As in any unfamiliar society, a visitor should, nevertheless, be aware of certain do’s and don'ts to avoid offending people unintentionally. Basically, getting along involves good common sense and how one should behave at home. Still, there are a few special tips for travelers to Thailand.
The Monarchy
Thais revere the Royal Family, and visitors should be careful to show respect for His Majesty the King, the Queen and their children. For example, in a movie theater, movie-goers are required to stand up while the royal anthem is played. When attending a public event, at which a member of the Royal Family is present, watch the crowd and do what it does.
Religion
Thai law has special sections on religious offenses covering not only Buddhism, the religion of most Thais, but also other faiths in the Kingdom. Sacriligious comments, acts and vandalism of religious objects or place of worship are unlawful. It is also unlawful to cause any disturbances at religious congregations or ceremonies.
Here are a few tips on what to do and what not to do when visiting a religious place:
All Buddha images, large or small, ruined or not, are regarded as sacred. Do not climb on or do anything that would show lack of respect.
Dress politely and appropriately. Do not go to a temple shirtless or in shorts. Pants are considered unsuitable attire for women visiting a temple. If you have any questions, guides or officials at each temple will provide instructions for appropriate dress and behavior.
It is acceptable to wear shoes while walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel where the Buddha statue is kept.
In a Muslim mosque, men should wear hats and women should be well covered with slacks or a long skirt, a long sleeved botttoned-up blouse, and a scarf over the head. Everyone should remove her/his shoes before entering the mosque and should not be present during a religious gathering.
Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman or to directly accept anything from a woman. If a woman wishes to offer something to a monk or novice, she must first hand it to a man who will then present it to the monk. In case a woman wants to present something herself, the monk or novice will spread out a piece of saffron robe or a handkerchief for the woman to place the object on before it can be picked up or handled.
Social Customs: Do’s and Don’ts
The don’ts of everyday Thai social behavior are less clearly defined than those concerning the monarchy or religion, especially in Bangkok where western customs are widely accepted. However, what is acceptable in Bangkok may not be the same in the countryside where traditions remain strong and are strictly adhered. Here are few examples:
Thais do not normally shake hands when they greet each other, but instead press the palms of their hands in a prayer-like gesture called “wai”. Generally, a younger person should wai an older person, who will then return it.
It is considered rude to use your foot for pointing, especially when pointing at a person. Thais regard their head as the highest part of the body. They do not approve of touching anyone’s head, even in a friendly gesture. At social gatherings, young Thais go to considerable length to keep their head lower than those of their elders' in order to avoid giving the impression of looking down on them. This is not always possible, of course, but it is the effort that counts.
Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon. You may see some young Thai couple holding hands but never kissing in public
Losing your temper, especially in public, will most likely get you nowhere. Thais see such displays as poor mannerism. You have a greater chance of getting what you want if you keep a cool head and remain polite.
Do not be surprised if you are addressed by your first name, e.g. Mr. Bob or Ms. Mary, instead of your last name. This is because Thais refer to one another in this manner, usually with the title Khun (Mr., Mrs., or Ms.) in front.
Advice to Visitors on Arrival
The following tips are also helpful for arriving tourists.
Visitors arriving at Don Muang International Airport should use only authorized transportation services from the airport to the city and other areas. Please contact service counter in the arrival greeting area behind customs.
Those who need help with accommodations should consult the Thai Hotel Association counter in the arrival greeting area.
Avoid unauthorized people who offer their services as guides. Contact a reliable travel agent for a guide or Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) counter for all tourist information.
Visitors should consider using taxi services available at most major hotels.
Observe common sense precautions regarding personal safety and the safety of your belongings. Walking alone in the dark or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all your valuables are protected. Never let your belongings out of sight if possible.
Travel information is available at the TAT counter in the passenger arrival lounge at terminal 1 (Tel. 523-8972-3), terminal 2 (535-2669), or at the head office on Ratchadamnoen Nok Ave. (282-9775-6), and temporary office on Bumrung Muang Rd. (266-0075-6)
For assistance with safety, security, or unethical business practices, contact the Tourist Assistance Center in Bangkok at 281-5051 or 282-8129 or the Tourist Police at 255-2964-8 or 255-1699
Penalties for drug offenses are severe in Thailand. Do not get involved with drugs.
Shopping Advice
A wide variety of local souvenirs are available at reasonable prices in Thailand. For those who do not have much time and do not want to bother bargaining, products are also available at fixed prices in department stores. Bargains can be done at small shops or with street vendors. Popular items include silk and leather products, silverware, ceramics, and items carved out of softwood. Thailand’s jewelry is renowned for its craftsmanship and relatively low prices. However, necessary precautions should be taken before buying jewelry:
Disregard all strangers’ offers of free assistance or services. Shopkeepers pay a 10-30 percent commission to people who bring them customers and the price will be increased accordingly.
Compare and negotiate the price of jewelry at different shops before buying.
Note that any claim made by a shopkeeper that purchases can be refunded at Thai embassies, consulates, or other government agencies abroad is false
Make sure that all documents such as receipts, quality certificates, and credit card slips clearly indicate the name and address of the shop and the full purchase price.
Be aware that it is the general practice of jewelry shops in Thailand that all goods, once purchased, cannot be returned. However, if refund is offered, usually 25-30 percent of the purchase price will be deducted. Some reputable companies will take back jewelry for a full refund within 30 days after purchase.
Source - http://www.thaicongenvancouver.org/
The Monarchy
Thais revere the Royal Family, and visitors should be careful to show respect for His Majesty the King, the Queen and their children. For example, in a movie theater, movie-goers are required to stand up while the royal anthem is played. When attending a public event, at which a member of the Royal Family is present, watch the crowd and do what it does.
Religion
Thai law has special sections on religious offenses covering not only Buddhism, the religion of most Thais, but also other faiths in the Kingdom. Sacriligious comments, acts and vandalism of religious objects or place of worship are unlawful. It is also unlawful to cause any disturbances at religious congregations or ceremonies.
Here are a few tips on what to do and what not to do when visiting a religious place:
All Buddha images, large or small, ruined or not, are regarded as sacred. Do not climb on or do anything that would show lack of respect.
Dress politely and appropriately. Do not go to a temple shirtless or in shorts. Pants are considered unsuitable attire for women visiting a temple. If you have any questions, guides or officials at each temple will provide instructions for appropriate dress and behavior.
It is acceptable to wear shoes while walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel where the Buddha statue is kept.
In a Muslim mosque, men should wear hats and women should be well covered with slacks or a long skirt, a long sleeved botttoned-up blouse, and a scarf over the head. Everyone should remove her/his shoes before entering the mosque and should not be present during a religious gathering.
Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman or to directly accept anything from a woman. If a woman wishes to offer something to a monk or novice, she must first hand it to a man who will then present it to the monk. In case a woman wants to present something herself, the monk or novice will spread out a piece of saffron robe or a handkerchief for the woman to place the object on before it can be picked up or handled.
Social Customs: Do’s and Don’ts
The don’ts of everyday Thai social behavior are less clearly defined than those concerning the monarchy or religion, especially in Bangkok where western customs are widely accepted. However, what is acceptable in Bangkok may not be the same in the countryside where traditions remain strong and are strictly adhered. Here are few examples:
Thais do not normally shake hands when they greet each other, but instead press the palms of their hands in a prayer-like gesture called “wai”. Generally, a younger person should wai an older person, who will then return it.
It is considered rude to use your foot for pointing, especially when pointing at a person. Thais regard their head as the highest part of the body. They do not approve of touching anyone’s head, even in a friendly gesture. At social gatherings, young Thais go to considerable length to keep their head lower than those of their elders' in order to avoid giving the impression of looking down on them. This is not always possible, of course, but it is the effort that counts.
Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon. You may see some young Thai couple holding hands but never kissing in public
Losing your temper, especially in public, will most likely get you nowhere. Thais see such displays as poor mannerism. You have a greater chance of getting what you want if you keep a cool head and remain polite.
Do not be surprised if you are addressed by your first name, e.g. Mr. Bob or Ms. Mary, instead of your last name. This is because Thais refer to one another in this manner, usually with the title Khun (Mr., Mrs., or Ms.) in front.
Advice to Visitors on Arrival
The following tips are also helpful for arriving tourists.
Visitors arriving at Don Muang International Airport should use only authorized transportation services from the airport to the city and other areas. Please contact service counter in the arrival greeting area behind customs.
Those who need help with accommodations should consult the Thai Hotel Association counter in the arrival greeting area.
Avoid unauthorized people who offer their services as guides. Contact a reliable travel agent for a guide or Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) counter for all tourist information.
Visitors should consider using taxi services available at most major hotels.
Observe common sense precautions regarding personal safety and the safety of your belongings. Walking alone in the dark or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all your valuables are protected. Never let your belongings out of sight if possible.
Travel information is available at the TAT counter in the passenger arrival lounge at terminal 1 (Tel. 523-8972-3), terminal 2 (535-2669), or at the head office on Ratchadamnoen Nok Ave. (282-9775-6), and temporary office on Bumrung Muang Rd. (266-0075-6)
For assistance with safety, security, or unethical business practices, contact the Tourist Assistance Center in Bangkok at 281-5051 or 282-8129 or the Tourist Police at 255-2964-8 or 255-1699
Penalties for drug offenses are severe in Thailand. Do not get involved with drugs.
Shopping Advice
A wide variety of local souvenirs are available at reasonable prices in Thailand. For those who do not have much time and do not want to bother bargaining, products are also available at fixed prices in department stores. Bargains can be done at small shops or with street vendors. Popular items include silk and leather products, silverware, ceramics, and items carved out of softwood. Thailand’s jewelry is renowned for its craftsmanship and relatively low prices. However, necessary precautions should be taken before buying jewelry:
Disregard all strangers’ offers of free assistance or services. Shopkeepers pay a 10-30 percent commission to people who bring them customers and the price will be increased accordingly.
Compare and negotiate the price of jewelry at different shops before buying.
Note that any claim made by a shopkeeper that purchases can be refunded at Thai embassies, consulates, or other government agencies abroad is false
Make sure that all documents such as receipts, quality certificates, and credit card slips clearly indicate the name and address of the shop and the full purchase price.
Be aware that it is the general practice of jewelry shops in Thailand that all goods, once purchased, cannot be returned. However, if refund is offered, usually 25-30 percent of the purchase price will be deducted. Some reputable companies will take back jewelry for a full refund within 30 days after purchase.
Source - http://www.thaicongenvancouver.org/
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