Global Markets

Mayrik have established security and commercial partners in many countries where cultural and business etiquette is critical to the development and success of business deal's, in order to help our clients progress their business opportunities we would like to share the information below with you, please click on the map points highlighted for an insight into the business etiquette of the countries we and our partners, have experience in.

Mayrik, helping our clients by understanding the differences and bridging the gaps

South Africa

Introduction

South Africa has a population of approximately 40 million people. Three-quarters of its population is black (African) and approximately 15% is white (European). The rest is a mixture of white, Malayan and blacks whose ancestors were of Asian descent.

There are six major ethnic groups in South Africa: Afrikaner, Coloured/Cape Malay, Bantu, English, Chinese and Indian. There are 11 official languages in South Africa.

Most South Africans speak English and Afrikaans, which is derived from their Dutch heritage.

South Africa is considered the industrial giant of Africa. It is a substantial resource for minerals including gold, silver, copper and diamonds.

Religion in South Africa

South Africa is a predominantly Christian country as over 50% of the population practicing some form of Christianity, other than Catholicism.

Appearance

South Africans of Urban cultures generally wear western dress.
Dress well in public, it will be expected by your South African host.
African women wear a sari.

Behaviour

Gift giving is not the norm in business.
Do not present gifts with the left hand.
Use either both hands or the right hand when giving and presenting gifts.
Gifts will be opened upon receipt.
Business meetings can be held over lunch or dinner in a good restaurant.
Meals at the home of a white South African will include a barbecue by the pool--called a braaivleis (Afrikaans for roasted meat) or braai.

Communications

The handshake is the most common greeting. There are a variety of handshakes between ethnic groups.
Use titles and surnames to address people.
Appointments should be made starting at 9 a.m.
Do not rush deals. South Africans are very casual in their business dealings.
Business cards have no formal exchange protocol.
South Africans prefer a "win-win" situation.