Chinese Business Practices and Culture (study tour)

Description

China is one of New Zealand’s most important trading partners – it is currently New Zealand’s second largest import partner and third largest export market. China is the fastest growing major economy and its importance for New Zealand’s economy is likely to grow rapidly. The current and predicted future importance of China makes it critical for New Zealand business managers to gain the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to effectively conduct business activities in China. Due to the complex and diverse business and cultural environment in China, barriers exist for New Zealand businesses to expand their operations to China. The goal of this course is to lower these barriers.

The field-based course gives students first-hand experience of China’s culture, business practices and business environment. Orientation week before the study tour is designed to help make the transition from New Zealand to China easier. During this orientation you will receive training in Chinese culture and etiquette, as well as the basics of the Chinese language from the Confucius Institute. You will also complete your first piece of assessment during orientation week, a group project that requires you to respond to a request for proposal (RFP) from a hypothetical company.

During the study tour to China, students will take classes about Chinese business practices and culture, taught in English by the faculty of Zhejiang Gongshang University in Hangzhou. Students will participate in conversation groups with Zhejiang Gongshang University students, giving them a natural setting to learn more about Chinese culture as well as form a network of friends in China. Students will also participate company visits in Hangzhou and Shanghai.