Source: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Importing-From-China/392754510824676

Top 5 issues to consider when doing business with China

1. Cultural Difference

You should already know that China has a totally different culture than your country, including Business Culture. Some approaches that worked in your country might not work well here. The first thing I would suggest is to hire a Cultural Consultant, so that you will know what is considered proper and improper behavior.

2. Know the Laws and Regulations

You should know what Chinese Contract Law says before you negotiate a contract, what Chinese Company Law provide before you set up a JV, and what Chinese Labor Laws state before you recruit staff. Hire a professional legal consultant.

3. Bilateral Political Relationship

You should be aware of the potential political risk, especially for investors from major western countries. Whether they admit it or not, many countries don’t like China or have had issues with China for a long time.
A recent example, the French President challenged the sovereignty of China by publicly meeting Tibetan separatist, Dalai Lama, which has greatly affected China-France economic relationship in the last year. French retailer company Carrefour has been boycotted by Chinese people due to that. So look at the political relationship between your country and China and evaluate what factors (religion, social system, territory dispute) might cause potential conflict between the two countries.
In the future, I think many countries will try to strengthen their good relations with China, because of the ever-growing Chinese Market. But for now, a potential investor cannot ignore the risks that political matters may affect their ventures.

4. Love China, Love Chinese, Love the culture

If you love China and love Chinese, you will be happy to be part of the society. You will learn local things, and be able to identify opportunities and problems. You will isolate yourself from the society if you don’t like China, Chinese, or Chinese Culture.

5. Find a good assistant

A good assistant can be your eyes and ears. It is very important for business and life. A good assistant will serve as a “How-to” Guide, will show you how to travel and where to relocate, as well as ways to recruit locally.