Business Card Exchange in China: Essential Business Etiquette

Category: Meetings & Greetings · Updated April 2026

Key insight: Business cards are treated with great respect in China — they represent the person's identity and status.

Overview

In Chinese business culture, the business card (名片, míngpiàn) is more than contact information — it represents the professional identity of the person. The ceremony of exchanging cards signals respect and seriousness.

Dos ✅

Present your card with both hands
Face the card towards the recipient
Include a Chinese translation on the reverse
Receive cards with both hands and study them carefully
Place received cards on the table in front of you during meetings

Don'ts ❌

Never write on someone's business card
Never put it straight in your pocket
Never fold or bend the card
Never place it under a glass or use it as a notepad

Pro tip: Have cards printed in both English and Simplified Chinese. Gold text on cards is considered prestigious.

Industry Notes

In finance and legal sectors, titles matter even more. Always include seniority on cards.

Doing Business in China

Understanding Chinese business culture is essential for success. China operates on guanxi (relationship networks), mianzi (face/reputation), and long-term relationship building. Business deals in China take longer than in Western markets but tend to be more durable once established.

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