•Gift-giving is a central part of Japanese business etiquette.
•Bring a range of gifts for your trip so if you are presented with a gift you will be able to reciprocate.
•The emphasis in Japanese business culture is on the act of gift-giving not the gift itself.
•Expensive gifts are common.
•The best time to present a gift is at the end of your visit.
•A gift for an individual should be given in private.
•If you are presenting a gift to a group of people have them all present.
•The correct etiquette is to present/receive gifts with both hands.
•Before accepting a gift it is polite to refuse at least once or twice before accepting.
•Giving four or nine of anything is considered unlucky. Give in pairs if possible.

The above are a few of many examples of cross cultural differences in gift giving etiquette. It is advisable to try and ascertain some facts about the gift giving etiquette of any country you plan to visit on business. By doing so, you maximise the potential of your cross cultural encounter.

About the Author

Neil Payne is Director of Cross Cultural Communications consultancy, Kwintessential.

http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/cultural-services/cross-cultural-communication.html