During my recent business trip to China, I got a front-row seat to the bustling life and culture of this fascinating country. Here’s a peek into my adventure, complete with a sprinkle of humour!
My Window into China
The first indication of what I was in for, baggage carousel 51 in an airport with 300 gates enroute to the Canton Trade Fair, at probably the largest exhibition centre in the world. Between the airport, trade fair and the Hangzhou train station on a Friday night with its 30 gates and thousands of passengers queuing, it might have felt overwhelming, but it was surprisingly orderly, benign and purposeful.
The sheer volume of EV’s on the road was astonishing, Chinese EV’s alongside European cars interspersed with tiny hatchbacks the size of shopping trolleys, affectionately dubbed “chicken chases” by my colleague Will. The roads like a game of bumper cars, with loads of honking and swarms of electric scooters—zooming around like they’re in a video game. A commitment to climate change evident in the high proportion of EV’s, charging stations and trees lining the roads creating a green cityscape.
Construction Frenzy
While we were busy building houses back home, China constructs entire blocks of 6 to 12 apartment buildings housing up to 1,000 people each. For the elite, they are nestled near waterways and surrounded by parks, surrounded by shops, restaurants, gyms and pools like some utopian society. But for all that, house sales have been slow in China over the past year impacted as we have by a global downturn, inflation and interest rates. Interestingly, though, the Chinese build cities, with infrastructure and housing established then and industry encouraged to populate their new cities creating new economic hubs and new neighbourhoods.
The Real Housewives of Wenzhou
Speaking of neighbourhoods, let’s talk about the “Real Housewives of Wenzhou.” These ladies are not just living lavishly; they’re fashion icons with serious cash flow from their family factories producing among other things, clothing and shoes for the Italian fashion houses. It’s like a reality show waiting to happen. And all funded by the teams of factory workers and their sales and management counterparts who drive European cars—all thanks to some savvy business moves called incentivisation!
Work-Life Balance? What’s That?
Now, if you think working long hours are tough, try being a Chinese mum! With workdays stretching from 7 AM to 7 PM and only one day off per week, it’s no wonder its customary for grandmas to step in to babysit. Meanwhile, factory workers have it even tougher—working 10 to 12-hour shifts with just one day off each month. Yikes!
Fashion Forward (or Not)
When it comes to fashion, the locals dress conservatively—think covered shoulders and knees. But don’t be shocked if you see men rolling up their shirts to their armpits when it gets hot and letting it all hang out. If you want to fit right on in over there, the trendy folks sport layers of black with pops of colour, while most stick to jeans and white sneakers. And yes, they seem immune to the heat!
Business Etiquette: A Toast to New Friends
One of the highlights was experiencing Chinese business customs. Imagine round tables loaded with delicious dishes where everyone shares food from rotating lazy susans—talk about table teamwork! But beware of the rice wine; it packs a punch at 50% alcohol! Toasting is serious business here; you’ve got to clink glasses with everyone around the table. Just remember lower your glass slightly as a sign of respect!
Curious Stares and Safety Nets
As a blonde-haired foreigner, I was sure to receive attention. Staring was common, but a smile usually turned those curious looks into warm grins. And while security can feel intimidating, it also creates a sense of safety—everything is orderly and clean. I half-joked that if I left my phone on a table at an airport, it would probably still be there when I returned!
A Glimpse into Politics & Business
The political atmosphere is interesting too. The story goes that factory workers start their week with team meetings that include swearing allegiance and singing party songs, perhaps even a dance-definitely not your average Monday morning meeting in NZ.
I had the opportunity to get share notes and experiences with a counterpart in a substantial Chinese manufacturing business on business and tax regimes in our respective homelands. We were both surprised at alignment and similarities, but I won’t bore you with that here….
Final Thoughts
Overall, my trip to China was eye-opening and filled with laughter and learning. From factory floors and bursting banquet tables, to the bustling streets and curious locals, there was never a dull moment. I was seriously impressed by the industry and manufacturing, and the sheer number of electric cars and scooters on the roads. The smog is clearing and the inroads China is making on climate change need to be seen to be believed. If you get the chance to visit – go. Pack your sense of humour and an open mind—you’ll need both!
