If you reside in China and you are thinking about doing business with the Americans there are several things that you will want to keep in mind.  Remember, you are not dealing with people from the same culture as you, so there will be a learning curve involved.

The number one thing that the Chinese should keep in mind when doing business with Americans is that the two cultures are completely different.  This not only holds true on a business level, but it also holds true on a social level as well.  For many people this causes problems right from the get go.  The main issue that arises is that the two parties from the different countries have a hard time agreeing on what is right and wrong.  Everything from scheduling, to payment terms is different in each country.  This can often times lead to a power struggle from the start.

The best way to combat this problem is by detailing everything from the beginning.  This means that you will want to get together with your American business partners and come up with a contract that both parties can live with.  Even though this may sound like standard business procedure, you would be surprised to know that many companies rely on verbal agreements instead of getting everything in writing.  Make sure that you outline payment methods carefully.  Remember, the currency is different in both countries so you will want to make sure that this is carefully written.  Also, make sure that time frame and scheduling are worked out in advance.  Everybody in America is always in a rush to get things done; this means that the Chinese company should be aware of this, and make sure that they are capable of keeping up with the fast pace.

Also, the Chinese should be aware that there will be communication and geographic restraints that may make doing business a bit more difficult.  The same thing holds true for Americans.  From the start, both sides should try get in touch with the people at each company who can effectively communicate with them.  In other words, the Chinese company should have English speaking employees working for them, and they should also make sure that the company in America has Chinese employees.  This will go a long way in ensuring that communications go very smoothly.  You will also want to plan a trip to America so that you can get a good feeling for the culture, as well as the company you are doing business.  And on the flip side, it is only courteous to invite the Americans to visit you.

Overall, Chinese-American business relationships are possible.  There are thousands of these relationships in place at this time.  The most important thing that the Chinese should remember is that Americans are completely different.  Everything from the culture, to the currency is different.  By keeping the lines of communication open from the beginning, you will ensure yourself of having a long and prosperous relationship anytime you are doing business with Americans.