Dining Etiquette in China: Essential Business Etiquette

Category: Wining & Dining · Updated April 2026

Overview

The business banquet (商务宴请, shāngwù yànqǐng) is one of the most important venues for building guanxi. Many deals are agreed in principle at the dinner table before formal meetings begin.

Dos ✅

• Wait for the host to sit first
• Toast frequently — ganbei (干杯) means bottoms up
• Try every dish that is offered
• Accept food placed on your plate by the host
• Let the most senior person order or begin eating first

Don'ts ❌

• Don't stick chopsticks vertically in rice (funeral rite)
• Don't pour your own drink — pour others first
• Don't refuse alcohol entirely if possible (say you're driving)
• Don't discuss business during the meal — it's relationship time
• Don't complain about food

Industry Notes

In the tech sector (BAT companies), Western-style working dinners are more common. In manufacturing and traditional industries, formal banquets remain essential.

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.