Guanxi is one of the most misunderstood concepts in Chinese business. In this classic post, David Wolf explains why personal connections are no substitute for sound business practices. Sixteen years later, his insights remain remarkably relevant. A tribute to a wonderful human being and a China mentor I was fortunate to know.
Letters of credit can reduce payment risks in international trade, but drafting errors and document discrepancies can leave exporters unpaid. This guide explains how letters of credit work, why banks refuse payment, and what importers and exporters should do to protect themselves.
China retail is its own world. To succeed with it, you generally must create the customer base yourself.
China surveillance poses real risks for foreign business travelers. From monitored hotel rooms to compromised laptops, firsthand experiences and U.S. government warnings show why companies must protect their confidential information when doing business in China.
Blawg Review #162: The World Peace Edition "I hear that sometimes Satan comes as a man of peace." Bob Dylan, Man of Peace "I am a man of peace." Kwai Chang Caine, Kung Fu, Episode 8 "Peace lies not in the world...but in the man who walks the path." Master Po, Kung Fu, Episode 8
The Danone-Wahaha dispute remains one of the clearest examples of what can go wrong in a China joint venture. From misunderstood ownership structures to questionable trademark arrangements and loss of management control, this case offers four important lessons for foreign companies doing business in China.
We will be discussing the practical aspects of Chinese law and how it impacts business there. We will be telling you about what works and what does not and what you as a businessperson can do to use the law to your advantage. Our aim is to assist businesses already in China or planning to go into China, not to break new ground in legal theory or policy. We want to start a conversation with, for and about the person who wants to know "what is what" in China and the practical aspects of starting and growing a business in or involved with China.
