Your Guide to International Gift Giving Etiquette

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When it comes to international business etiquette and gift giving, it’s important to consider the cultural norms and practices of the country or region you are dealing with. Taking the time to understand and observe the local customs will help you establish and maintain positive business relationships.

You need to carefully consider the nature of the business relationship and the appropriateness of gift giving in that context. In some cultures, gifts may be exchanged only after a certain level of trust and rapport has been established.

You should avoid giving gifts that may be considered taboo or offensive in the local culture. This could include items with religious or political connotations, alcohol in cultures that prohibit or discourage its consumption, or items that carry negative symbolism.

It is also important to familiarise yourself with your own company’s corporate policies regarding gift giving. Some organisations may have specific guidelines or limitations on the value or types of gifts that can be given or received.

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Here are some key points to keep in mind:

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Research the Culture: Learn about the local customs and traditions regarding gift giving in the specific country or region. Understand the acceptable types of gifts, appropriate occasions, and any cultural taboos or restrictions.
Personalisation: Tailor the gift to the individual recipient, taking into account their interests, preferences, and professional background. A thoughtful and personalised gift is often appreciated.
Avoid Expensive or Extravagant Gifts: In some cultures, lavish or extravagant gifts may be seen as inappropriate or even offensive. It’s generally advisable to choose modest and meaningful gifts that demonstrate thoughtfulness rather than extravagance.
Packaging and Presentation: Pay attention to the way you package and present the gift. In many cultures, the act of unwrapping a gift is considered important and should be done with care and respect.
Reciprocity: Be prepared for the possibility of receiving a gift in return. In many cultures, gift giving is reciprocal, and it is customary to reciprocate the gesture appropriately.

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Gift giving etiquette will vary according to the country or region that you are travelling to. Here, we outline some specific etiquette tips to bear in mind when you are doing business in Brazil, China, France, Italy, Japan and the United States of America.

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Gift Giving Etiquette in Brazil

Gifts are not important in establishing a business relationship, and people won’t expect gifts in the first few contacts. A very expensive gift may be viewed as a bribe.
Present a gift at a social meeting, not during a formal business meeting.
Give good quality whisky, wine, coffee table books and name brand pens. Gifts for your counterpart’s children will be appreciated.
Send flowers before or after visiting someone’s home for dinner.

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Gift Giving Etiquette in China

Present a gift with both hands. Gifts are generally not opened upon receiving.
Older Chinese people usually refuse a gift at first to be polite. Make sure you offer the gift a second time.
Avoid white, which is symbolic of death, especially of parents, and black, which symbolises tragedy or death.
When invited to someone’s home, always bring a small gift for the hostess, such as brandy, chocolates or cakes.
Be prepared to exchange a modest gift with your business colleagues at the first meeting. Not giving a gift could start a business meeting off on the wrong foot.
Always give gifts to each member of the Chinese delegation that meets you in the order in which they were introduced.

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Gift Giving Etiquette in France

Small business gifts may be exchanged, but usually not at the first meeting.
Never send a gift for a French colleague to his/her home.
Give a good quality gift or none at all. Appropriate gifts could include art, books, a good quality pen or good quality office accessories.
Do not give gifts with your company logo stamped on them (the French consider this garish).
When invited to someone’s home, always bring a small gift for the hostess. If possible, send flowers the morning of the party (popular in Paris). Otherwise, present a gift to the hostess upon arrival.
Give candy, cookies, cakes and flowers. Do not give gifts of 6 or 12 (for lovers) or gifts of odd numbers, especially 13. Avoid chrysanthemums or red roses; and wine unless it is exceptional quality.

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Gift Giving Etiquette in India

Give gifts with both hands. Gifts are not normally opened in the presence of the giver.
Gifts from your country are appreciated (perfume, chocolates, small china or crystal objects).
Gifts are not normally expected at the first meeting. Gifts may be given once a relationship develops.

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Gift Giving Etiquette in Italy

Italians are very generous gift givers. You may feel embarrassed if you give a “cheap” or practical gift.
Gifts should be beautifully wrapped and are opened in front of the giver when received.
Gifts are generally not exchanged at initial business meetings, however, having a gift in your briefcase in case your Italian hosts give you one is recommended.
High quality liquor, gifts with company logos, desk accessories, music and books are appreciated.
When invited to someone’s home, always bring a small gift for the host or hostess. You can also send flowers or a gift to the host’s home the day of or the day after a party.
Do not wrap a gift in black with gold ribbon, which symbolises mourning.

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Gift Giving Etiquette in Japan

The ritual of gift giving is more important than the value of the gift.
Allow your Japanese counterpart to initiate the gift giving. Present a gift in a modest fashion, saying, “This is just a small token,” or “This is an insignificant gift.”
It is very important to receive a gift properly. Give a gift and receive a gift with both hands and a slight bow. The Japanese may refuse a gift once or twice before accepting it.
Do not give anyone a gift unless you have one for everyone present.
Correct wrapping is very important. Appearance counts for as much or more than the contents.
Be prepared to give and receive a gift at a first business meeting. Gifts are frequently given at the end of a first meeting. Not giving a proper gift could ruin a business relationship.

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Gift Giving Etiquette in the United States of America

Americans do not have as many customs and taboos concerning gifts as many other cultures have.
Gifts from your country will always be appreciated. Good choices are local and regional arts and crafts, books, candies, specialty foods and wine or spirits (if you are certain that the recipient drinks).
If you are invited to someone’s home for dinner or a party, bring flowers, a potted plant, a fruit basket, candy, wine, a book or a small household gift.
Many companies have policies that discourage their employees from giving or receiving gifts. Most government employees are not allowed to accept gifts. Do not be offended if someone cannot accept a gift.
Cash gifts are never appropriate.

In conclusion, it is definitely worth paying attention to gift giving etiquette if you are doing business with international clients or partners. Taking the time to understand the cultural norms and protocols of the country or region you are travelling to will help you avoid any embarrassing (and potentially costly!) etiquette faux pas.

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Your Guide to International Gift Giving Etiquette