Business savoir-vivre and culture: differences between Portugal and China

The business world is nowadays more competitive, therefore sometimes the companies are forced to expand outside the national market and seek new customers and partners across borders. In order to achieve success, it is necessary to be aware that we live in a diversified world and that we have to respect the culture of other countries. The knowledge of cultural differences is especially important while doing business in other countries, as it prevents to avoid mistakes that disrespect other cultures. This article intends to address the cultural differences between two countries: Portugal, as an example of European country, and China, as a country that raises a lot of curiosity and has completely different culture and traditions than countries in Europe. Moreover, China and Portugal carries out enhanced international cooperation and transactions. Based on the available literature, the authors intend to emphasize the importance and concept of savoir vivre in business and present the major differences between these two countries.