As pleasant as gift shopping can be, one thing is for certain. It can be tricky to find a suitable present for your international friends, colleagues or business partners. Some nations tend to exchange gifts only during birthdays and holidays, while others do so in other situations, as well. In addition, there are cultures in which colors and gift’s wrapping are just as important as the gift itself.
You want to make sure exchanging gifts will be a joyful experience for everyone involved? Or maybe you are just curious to learn what presents people give themselves in different countries? Whatever the case might be, you are in the right place. Let’s delve deeper into the world of gift shopping.
SAUDI ARABIA
If you are heading for a business meeting in Yemen, you do not have to go to any gift store. In fact, it would be very embarrassing to give a gift unless you are a part of someone’s closest circle. If you still need to give a present, make sure you choose something of high quality.
ITALY
If you want to make an Italian feel great, make sure you add a personal touch to your gift gifting. Instead of just browsing for expensive gift items online, put thought and consideration into your gift. Italians value networking and relationships a lot. Therefore, it would always make a good impression if you bring a gift that you created yourself (i.e. homemade pastry).
In other words, even if you buy a present, go to a handmade gift shop instead of a gift centre. What is more, never wrap a gift in purple because Italians believe this color is unlucky.
FRANCE
Whenever you visit someone in France, it is always appropriate to bring champagne, fine chocolates or flowers. Nevertheless, do not give carnations, red roses or chrysanthemums because they symbolize bad luck, romance and death respectively.
ZIMBABWE
Did you know that Zimbabwean people expect you to bring a gift even if they haven’t requested it? Therefore, do not make the mistake to refuse an offering just because you assume that the giver is poor. Also, instead of saying “Thank you”, people in Zimbabwe like to dance, whistle or jump up and down.
JAPAN
In Japan, as well as East Asian countries like Taiwan, China and South Korea, it is not uncommon for people to initially refusing a gift. Otherwise, the receiver may seem impatient and greedy. So, in addition to putting thought into your gift shopping, insist until the receiver accepts the gift. Also, make sure that you also refuse other people’s gifts once, twice or even three times.
CHINA
Chinese people also place a lot of importance on connections and respect. One option is to go to a little gift shop and pick up a regional-specific gift. You can also give cigars and wine to your business partners, but make sure you focus on premium brands. Note: never give green hats or clocks as gifts because Chinese people associate them with unfaithfulness or death.
RUSSIA
If you want to express your gratitude for the hospitality of your Russian host, do not send a “Thank you” card, but a small gift.
It is not a coincidence that receiving gifts is one of the 5 love languages. Yet, to receive or offer gifts without causing offence, research what gift shopping customs you need to be aware of.
