Law and regulations in China have a different tradition than in the West. Most of the laws in China have been stipulated over the last decades and continue to be changed according to reality. Implementing new regulations might sometimes be done overnight. Chinese lawyers are used to the flexibility needed to deal with this. For a Western company, it might not always be easy to understand.

Branding and promotion in China have specific dynamics, often quite different from the West. The size of the population, regional differences, the way China deals with information, the speed of development in telecommunication and information technology, all have influence, but also cultural preferences are strong in a country with ‘5000 years of history’. A good advertising campaign in China needs an understanding of the underlying forces at work.

Monistic or holistic thinking in China leads to a lot of symbolism. Translation of names and brand names, use of icons, product design, date and ceremony of an opening of a new production line, and many other things often have deeper meaning related to the fact that all things are interrelated.

Etiquette rules in China are linked to social position. Hierarchy between people influences the way they behave towards each other. Receiving and sending delegations requires insight into these traditions.

Governmental involvement in many aspects of Chinese life and business life, combined with insider-outsider ethics where information is only shared with insiders, makes it difficult for a Westerner to find out who is responsible for what and which parties have an impact on decision-making. At the negotiation table, the Chinese tend to speak with one voice, even if parties with contrasting interests are seated at the table.

We are happy to advise you on any of these matters, and on many other areas.
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