Hong Kong, China Hotels and City Guide

Hong Kong - Business Tips

Hong Kong Business Travel Advice

Hong Kong has been a trading capital for generations, and as one of the biggest international ports in the world, many business travelers reach this destination each year.

One of the best examples of a free market-enterprise based systems in the world, Hong Kong seems to always be booming in spite of any other economic changes in the world. With a per capita GDP of $38,000, the IMF ranks them fifth worldwide. The service industries employ more than eighty percent of the workforce and make up close to ninety percent of the GDP.

The financial sector is strong here as well. The stock exchange is the seventh largest in the world. 2006 saw the price of first-time public offerings here as the second largest globally, trailing only London.

Business Etiquette in Hong Kong

Dress Code

Standards of dress for business people are a bit more stringent in Hong Kong with business people expected to be dressed to impress. Most local business people will speak excellent English.

Greeting Someone in Hong Kong

A handshake is the most common form of greeting among business associates. Avoid prolonged eye contact, and wait for your host to introduce you to other members of the party. You should address others by their honorific titles and their surnames.

Business Hours and Banking

General office hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. Punctuality is expected at all times and it is considered highly offensive to miss or be late for an appointment.

Smoking

It is illegal to smoke in public places in Hong Kong. Some outdoor areas uphold this ban too, so it’s best to ask before lighting up while you’re here.

General Etiquette

As a courtesy you may consider having your business cards translated into Chinese on the opposite side. This is looked upon very favorably in the business community and seen as a sign of great respect.
Most of the better hotels are more than happy to provide you with business center services from translation to typing and duplication as needed.

Hotels in Hong Kong, China