Singapore City Guide - Business Etiquette

English is the official language of business in Singapore and business is conducted very much on a Western model. However, Asian (and especially Chinese) business ethics often prevail. Most offices are designed (interior and exterior) in consultation with a feng shui expert, in order to create the most auspicious environment for generating wealth and harmony, and most feature a fish pond or fountain to ensure that money flows in the right direction. Business cards are exchanged on every social and business occasion and it is common courtesy to give or receive them with two hands (as with any piece of paper, including money). Corporate entertaining is high on the agenda and long lunches are often taken, with lavish buffets a popular option. Smoking is illegal in many places and is not always socially acceptable, so visitors should check before lighting up.

There are 12 public holidays a year, the most significant being Chinese New Year, usually in February. This is the only occasion when almost everything shuts down - locals spend time visiting their families and expats leave for a long weekend away. During other public holidays, like Christmas Day, banks and offices close but shops stay open.

Business dress is fairly formal, however, men's suits may veer towards lighter shades in Singapore's tropical climate and, except for formal meetings, a jacket is usually dispensed with. Women wear skirt or trouser suits, while their Malay colleagues wear their national dress for formal functions. Some organisations have adopted casual Fridays, although only those departments with no client contact tend to take advantage of this.

Locals and expats alike work long hours. The official working day is 0900-1800 but much longer hours are quite common.