Gift Giving Etiquette in Different Countries of World

Gift Giving Etiquette in Different Countries of World

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The tradition of gift giving is a worldwide practice that has been started since the beginning of the man. Giving gifts is a surprisingly complex and important part of human interaction. Anthropologist Terry Y. LeVine said it best: “The practice of giving and receiving gifts is so universal, it is part of what it means to be human. In virtually every culture, gifts and the events at which they are exchanged are a crucial part of the essential process of creating and maintaining social relationships. The feelings could be similar, however the customs and traditions of gift giving varies from culture to culture and country to country.

Over the time different cultures developed their own gift giving etiquette to signify its importance in their cultures. Understanding gift giving and the etiquette surrounding can help people cement better relationships with foreign people. So, let’s have a look at most of the popular countries with their special gift giving etiquette:

Gift giving etiquette in France: In France, gifts are usually opened when they are received. Flowers high quality chocolates, or liqueur is an appropriate gift for the host if invited to a French home. The French, don’t care about the expensiveness and inexpensiveness of gift. Rather, try to avoid bouquets with an even number of flowers, and typically a wine bottle on the dinner party. It’s a kind of insult to host/hostess. Choose something such as personalized mementos for the recipient that would be liked and appreciated. 

Gift giving etiquette in North America and the UK: During Birthday and Christmas celebrations, it is common for the British to exchange gifts between family members and close friends. The gift needs not to be expensive, but it should usually demonstrate an attempt to find something that is related to the recipient’s interests. You could opt for personalized birthday gifts or plaques as well. British business colleagues are likely to feel embarrassed, to receive any gift at all. The only exception could be the closing of a deal.

Gift giving etiquettes in China: Giving and receiving gifts is a complex Chinese Etiquette. You could only present a gift when visiting someone’s home on major Chinese holidays such as Chinese New Year, at weddings and for birthdays. Did you know that in China and Japan, people have never gifted clocks? This is because clock represents ‘your time is running out’. This is not an ideal gift at all for Chinese and Japanese.

Gift giving etiquette in Japan: Giving gifts in Japan can be a difficult task. Do you know, anything related to number 4 or 9 is considered unlucky over there? Even gift receiving can be an ordeal in itself. A gift for an individual should be given in private and opened in private.

Gift giving etiquette in Sweden: In Sweden, presenting something is not common among business associates. And, if you are invited to Swede’s Home, bringing chocolates, flowers, liquor, wine or cake is considered as the best gift. When personally receiving a gift, it should be opened immediately upon receipt. Never give an even number of flowers as a gift.

Gift giving etiquette in Germany: German gift giving etiquette involves presenting chocolates or flowers. A small gift is polite when contacts are made for the first time. Upon returning home, remember to send handwritten thank you card to your host for their invitation.

The above are a few of many examples for gift giving etiquette in different countries. It is advisable to try and ascertain some facts before planning for a business visit or meeting someone personally in foreign countries. By doing so, you are sure to maximize the potential of your cross-cultural encounter.

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