Gifts and Gift Giving: In giving gifts to persons from cultures other than your own culture, care is needed not to offend.

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Gifts and the giving of gifts: A general lack of cross cultural understanding can lead to misunderstandings which may result in an insult rather than a gift. 

The etiquette of gift giving is very important. A general lack of cross cultural understanding can lead to misunderstandings which may result in an insult rather than a gift. 

The Japanese and the Chinese have very detailed rituals for gift giving. Nomadic cultures in the Middle East have a tradition of hospitality to travelers which includes gifts.

If you’re giving a gift to a person from a country known for producing a particular product, such as silver in Mexico, don't offer that item as a gift, especially if it is manufactured elsewhere. Some examples of products and countries are:

• Beer and wine in Germany
• Silver in Mexico
• Leather and wine in Argentina
• Leather in Brazil and Uruguay
• Scissors in Finland
• Wine in France and Italy
• Vodka in Russia and Poland

Universally, chocolate is a good choice. Buy kosher chocolate as gifts for Jewish friends, relatives, and business associates. Avoid milk chocolate if the recipient eats vegan.

Before doing business in a country different from your own,  gain specific knowledge about the practice of giving gifts in a business situation.

For example, in North America or the UK, the giving of gifts is rare in the business world. It could even be construed as bribery. In many other countries, however, the giving of gifts is a common practice.

Gifts for Men
Gifts for Women
Gifts for Kids
Family Gifts

Gifts and the giving of gifts.

Additional information about gifts and gift giving

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