Culture Smart Business in China

Understanding the cultural foundations of doing business in China is essential for Canadian companies seeking success in the market. In this webinar, trade consultant and former Export Development Canada official Marvin Hough shares practical insights into the values, customs, and evolving practices that shape Chinese business culture.

Participants will gain an appreciation of key elements such as the importance of relationships and guanxi, collective decision-making within Chinese organizations, high-context communication styles, the concept of saving face, and the continued role of hierarchy. Drawing on his personal experience, Mr. Hough will also review the Chinese negotiation process and share strategies that can help Canadian firms engage more effectively with Chinese counterparts.

This session will highlight practical ways Canadian companies can prepare for meetings, negotiations, and long-term partnerships in China while avoiding common pitfalls. Whether entering the market or strengthening existing ties, attendees will gain insights to help them navigate business discussions with confidence and cultural awareness.

What You’ll Learn:

• Key cultural values that shape Chinese business practices
• The role of guanxi and relationship-building in business success
• How collective thinking influences decisions in Chinese organizations
• How to interpret China’s high-context communication style
• The importance of saving face and understanding hierarchy
• Practical negotiation strategies based on real market experience
• How Canadian companies can prepare and avoid common pitfalls

Who Should Attend:

• Canadian exporters and businesses interested in the Chinese market
• Trade professionals and international business managers
• Companies currently working with Chinese partners
• Anyone seeking to better understand Chinese business culture

Speaker: Marvin Hough, B.Comm, MBA, CITP/FIBP | President, MIRA Services

Marvin Hough brings over 30 years of international business expertise from senior leadership roles with Export Development Canada, with postings across Asia and Latin America including Beijing, New Delhi, and Mexico City. He later served as an educator at the University of Ottawa’s Telfer School of Management, authored two books on international trade and business culture, and continues to advise, mentor, and provide international research through his firm, MIRA Services.

Date: May 20, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM (ADT)

Location: Online (Webinar)

A link to this webinar will be provided to registered attendees before the start of the event.

Register