Business etiquette
In Myanmar, business requires patience as well as a willingness to form friendships and foster trust. Attempts to conduct business without regard for the local culture and way of life will be difficult. A first meeting is frequently used simply to get to know each other as a prelude to more serious discussions.
Asians in general, including Myanmar, dislike the word "no," so what Danes perceive as a "yes" may be an attempt to politely decline and avoid the partner losing face, or to indicate that more discussions are required. Matters may appear ambiguous at first, and you may need to contact someone several times before a matter is resolved. This is not always the case, and matters are sometimes resolved more quickly, but it is something to keep in mind. The majority of deals are reached verbally and then formalized with a written contract.
Myanmar has a welcoming and open culture. When you meet new or potential business partners, exchanging gifts is often part of the first rituals of getting to know each other. Addressing people by their honorific title and full name is also a good practice. 'U' and 'Daw' are equivalent to 'Mr' and 'Mrs' or 'Ms' in Myanmar.
In Myanmar, exchanging business cards is common. It is polite to take a few moments to read a business card as a sign of respect. Some people exchange cards with both hands. In general, give or receive with your right hand and avoid using your left. It is also customary to leave them on the table during the meeting. If you are planning a long-term or frequent trip to Myanmar, you should consider printing double-sided cards with both English and Myanmar text. It is also important to be aware of whether or not your hosts remove their shoes before entering their office, as is common in much of South East Asia.
Another critical aspect of doing business in Myanmar is the requirement to be present in the country either permanently or on a regular basis, as personal relationships are culturally important, as well as for business. When conducting business in Myanmar, it is critical to keep in mind the country's many public holidays, which range from 25 to 27 days per year. During public holidays, most private businesses are closed, but shipping and customs are usually open.
