Gifts
Gift giving varies from culture to culture. According to Susan Kurth Clot deBroissia each culture around the world has a variance on the importance of gift giving. Here are some fun facts about gift giving around the world:
Japan:
- Gifts need not be extravagant, although expensive gifts are not viewed as a bribe.
- Always wrap the gifts you present, but remember to avoid white and brightly colored wrapping paper. White symbolizes death and bright colors are too flashy.
- Gifts should be presented at the end of a visit.
- As in the Japanese culture, it is proper etiquette to present gifts with two hands.
- Giving clocks as gifts. The word for "clock" in Chinese is similar to the word for "death." Unless you are certain your Chinese colleague will not be offended by receiving a clock, this gift idea is better avoided.
- Be very careful to not give a gift originally made in Taiwan.
- Be sure to avoid alcohol and leather products made of pigskin, which are offensive to Muslims. Also avoid giving gifts to the wife of an Arab colleague, and never inquiry about her.
Pacific Rim Countries:
China:
Taiwan:
Middle Eastern Countries:
Home | Media | Self-Image | Tourism | Weddings