Chinese New Year Business Impact in China: Essential Business Etiquette

Category: Culture & Values · Updated April 2026

Overview

Chinese New Year (春节, Chūnjié) is the world's largest annual human migration. Virtually all manufacturing, logistics, and government operations slow or stop for 1–4 weeks. Planning around this is essential for any China supply chain.

Dos ✅

• Plan all deliveries and payments before the New Year period
• Set clear return dates with suppliers
• Build inventory buffer for the shutdown
• Send New Year greetings to all Chinese contacts
• Use the period for relationship-building gifts

Don'ts ❌

• Don't plan factory visits or contract signings in late January or February
• Don't assume people are checking WeChat during the holiday
• Don't leave payments or invoices outstanding before CNY
• Don't underestimate the supply chain impact
• Don't neglect to send greetings — it signals you value the relationship

Industry Notes

Electronics manufacturers and exporters should confirm production slots before end of January as factory workers may not return after CNY.

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.