
The once assumed gentle country where paddy fields of rice grew, ploughed by oxen and the finest tea in all the world grew has now become a giant that has woken from its slumber. “For all the tea in China” people used to say but in 2016 it is not just tea that China produces, although China produces 35% of the world’s tea and the country itself consumes tea equal in weight to 26 Titanics (2010 figures) in weight, but the country is the heart of everything hi-tech and many things low tech.
But it is not all roses, the people of china and the economy of China, the great yellow giant is starting to show signs of trouble. Demand for coal, iron ore, gold, platinum and other commodities has seen a decline in recent months. Manufacturing output is down. China has some trouble on the horizon and trouble for many spells opportunity. Those people who speak Mandarin, the most widely spoken form of Chinese, or Chinese generally now have the greatest opportunity to capitalise on the downward trend that can create these opportunities. Speaking a language creates much needed confidence. It can demonstrate that you take the other person seriously, shows respect and can put the other personal at ease if you can converse in their native language. All this can help to build good connections and ongoing relationships.
No matter how challenging the future may be for China right now the person who speaks the language is the one who can capitalise on the current situation and open up opportunity. The simple fact that a language is spoken may mean a deal maybe quickly struck and you and your new partner, customer or friend can relax and enjoy a good cup of Chinese tea.