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Gift Giving Etiquette Japan
•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
act of gift-giving not
gift itself. •Expensive gifts are common. •The best time to present a gift is at
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.
Gift Giving Etiquette in Saudi Arabia
•Gifts should only be given to
most intimate of friends. •Gifts should be of
highest quality. •Never buy gold or silk as a present for men. •Silver is acceptable. •Always give/receive gifts with
right hand. •Saudis enjoy wearing scent – ‘itr’. The most popular is ‘oud’ which can cost as much as £1000 an ounce. •It is not bad etiquette to open gifts when received.
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
gift giving etiquette of any country you plan to visit on business. By doing so, you maximise
potential of your cross cultural encounter.

Neil Payne is Director of Cross Cultural Communications consultancy, Kwintessential.
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/cultural-services/cross-cultural-communication.html