•It is Chinese custom to decline a gift three times before accepting; this ritual prevents the recipient from appearing too acquisitive. In the face of these protestations, continue to insist. Once your gift is finally accepted say that you are pleased that the recipient has done so. When you receive a gift, you will be expected to go through the same routine.
•Give an even number of flowers to a Chinese person. An odd number of flowers will only be perceived as an omen of bad luck.
•Gifts of food are acceptable, but not at dinner parties or other occasions where appetizers and meals will be served. Candy and fruit baskets, however, are appreciated as thank-you gifts sent after these events.
•At Chinese New Year, it is customary to give a gift of money in a red envelope to children and to the service personnel you deal with on a regular basis. This gift is called “hong bao.” Give only new bills in even numbers and even amounts. Many employers give each employee a “hong bao” equivalent to one month's salary. This is a government-mandated type of gift-giving that may be applicable to you if you are considered an employer in the country.
•Red or pink wrapping paper is the safest choice.