The new economic powerhouse, but there are hazards to doing business there. One, despite a relatively heavy hand used by the government, corruption is still a major problem. Two, only a small part of the population has actually enjoyed the fruits of the country's economic expansion. So, the true economic pool of consumers or business prospects is actually quite small.

Hong Kong, which is being used as an economic model for mainland China, has been prosperous for years under long before the British relinquished. The terms for the return of Hong Kong to Chinese rule in July 1997 carefully protected the territory�s separate economic characteristics, which have been so beneficial to the Chinese economy. Under the Basic Law, a "one country-two systems" policy was formulated which left Hong Kong monetarily and economically separate from the mainland with exchange and trade controls remaining in place as well as restrictions on the movement of people.

This is a lovely cross between East and West. Capitalism definitely is the main form of business, but the bazaar business model, which has existed for thousands of years still flourish. Most Westerns are not comfortable in this environment because relationships are equally or even more important than the use of a contract. Further, there is the need to have a basic understanding of Islam in order not to offend anyone, least of all, potential business clients or partners.