Cyborlink · International Business Etiquette
Asia · Country Profile

Doing business in Hong Kong

A working reference on Hong Kong business etiquette, culture, and cross-cultural communication — updated for the contemporary workplace.

Hong Kong SARCapital: N/A (Special Administrative Region)
Language: Cantonese, English, Mandarin
Currency: HK Dollar (HK$)
§ 01 — Orientation

Introduction

Hong Kong is predominantly Chinese with a population of approximately 7.4 million. There are two official languages, Chinese (Cantonese) and English. Hong Kong has no official religion. Hong Kong was ceded to the United Kingdom in 1842 and remained a British Crown Colony until 1997 when it was returned to China as a Special Administrative Region (SAR).

As part of China, Hong Kong was designed to serve as an economic and cultural bridge between the capitalist West and mainland China under the “one country, two systems” framework, which was intended to preserve Hong Kong’s legal system, civil liberties, and capitalist economy for 50 years until 2047.

Critical context for international business: Hong Kong’s political and business landscape has changed fundamentally since 2019. The imposition of the National Security Law in 2020 by Beijing significantly curtailed political freedoms, press independence, and civil liberties. Many international media organizations, NGOs, and professional firms have reduced their Hong Kong presence. Some multinational companies have shifted regional headquarters to Singapore. While Hong Kong remains a major financial center with world-class infrastructure, rule of commercial law, and deep capital markets, companies should carefully evaluate the evolving regulatory environment, data privacy implications, and the degree to which Beijing’s authority now shapes the business climate.

Fun Fact

In business dealings with Westerners, the Chinese often choose a nickname. Don’t be surprised if during your business dealings with the Chinese they ask to consult with a fengshui man (a geomancer). A fengshui man may be brought in to determine good luck dates or the proper spatial arrangement for a building or office. This individual’s opinion should be observed.

Interview

Interview with Wai Chui →

A candid conversation about Chinese business etiquette, cultural mistakes, and the world of Chinese homonyms.

§ 02 — Cultural Analysis

Hofstede Analysis

Hong Kong — Six-Dimension Scores
Power Distance
68
Individualism
25
Masculinity
57
Uncertainty Avoidance
29
Long-Term Orientation
61
Indulgence
17
Source: Hofstede Insights. Scores on a 0–100 scale.

The Geert Hofstede analysis for Hong Kong is similar to that of other Asian countries. Where Hong Kong differs dramatically is in their Uncertainty Avoidance factor. Most Asian countries rank fairly high in this category, however in Hong Kong they tend to be greater risk takers. The highest-ranking factor is Long-term Orientation (61), which reflects their emphasis on relationships.

Of note is Hong Kong’s relatively low Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI) Dimension ranking of only 29, compared to an average of 63 for the Far East Asian countries. This very low level of Uncertainty Avoidance indicates a society that not only tolerates uncertainty and a freedom of opinions, but uses this strength, in the case of Hong Kong, to be a place where many varying cultures and ideas can come together.

Hong Kong has an Individualism (IDV) ranking of 25, second highest for Far East Asian countries, behind Japan’s 46 ranking. This may be attributed, in part, to the long-term British (IDV of 89) rule of Hong Kong and the influence of European culture. The low Individualism ranking is manifest in a close and committed member ‘group’, be that a family, extended family, or extended relationships. Loyalty in a collectivist culture is paramount.

Hong Kong’s Power Distance score is 68 compared to the other Far East Asian countries’ average of 60. This is indicative of inequality of power and wealth within the society. Very low Indulgence (17) reflects a highly restrained culture where social norms and obligations govern personal behavior.

Read the full Hofstede framework →

Religion.  Hong Kong has no official religion. Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism are the most widely practiced traditions, often blended together. Approximately 12% are Christian (Protestant and Catholic). The concepts and teachings of the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius (500 BC) are woven into the society at large and profoundly influence business conduct.

§ 03 — Dress & Presence

Appearance

Dress, clothing,
body language
& gestures
  1. The color red is considered a lucky color in Hong Kong.
  2. When dressing for a business meeting, select a red tie to impress your host.
  3. The color white is synonymous with death.
  4. It is common in China to show one’s surprise or dismay by sucking air in quickly and loudly through the lips and teeth. If you have been shown this gesture, it would be advisable to modify your request. Your host is obviously displeased.
§ 04 — Conduct

Behavior

Dining, gifts,
meetings &
general conduct
  1. The toast is an integral part of the culture in Hong Kong.
  2. Ganbei is the popular Chinese toast. It means “dry glass” or “bottoms up.”
  3. Everyone is expected to drink a toast.
  4. The guest of honor makes the first toast.
  5. Follow the lead of your host when dining.
  6. Do not blow your nose at the table or in public.
  7. Do not rub your chopsticks together before dining. It implies that you have been given poor quality chopsticks that may have splinters.
  8. It is impolite to refuse to drink. Even if you do not drink, accept it and toast with your host.
  9. Drinking helps to relax the host and is an important part of the relationship building phase in Chinese business culture.
  10. Gift giving is a very important part of Chinese culture — see international business gift giving section.
  11. Bar hopping and karaoke are standard means of entertainment. Be prepared to be taken out on the town almost every night during your stay in Hong Kong.
  12. At close of trip, have a dinner for your host as a show of respect.
§ 05 — Communication

Communication

Greetings,
introductions &
conversation
  1. The handshake is fairly common in Hong Kong, however a slight bow will show a sign of respect.
  2. A round of applause may greet you during your visit. The Chinese like to applaud. You are expected to return the applause out of respect.
  3. Because Hong Kong is so densely populated the Chinese tend to converse very closely together.
  4. Silence is held in high regard in Hong Kong. Allow your host to contemplate without interruption.
  5. Names are usually written in the following order: the last name first, middle name second and the first name last.
  6. Use titles with names whenever possible.
  7. Appointments are recommended.
  8. Punctuality is expected.
  9. Use only black and white materials for presentations, as colors are very significant.
  10. Patience is important. The Chinese do not make business decisions quickly.
§ 06 — Further Reading

Resources

Government & Data

News & Culture

Cultural Framework