Paying for dinner in China can be a harrowing experience for Westerners, involving yelling, pushing or wrestling if necessary. While Westerners usually go Dutch, Chinese treat each other to meals. No matter the occasion (family or business dinners), bill fights are usually loud, amusing and physical. Last time when I got to fight, my bracelet was torn apart …
It is a pride-and-face thing. The more one can afford, the more one looks sincere and “worthy”. It is also a means to leverage connections. Money spent on paying the bill is nothing compared with the relationships you build this way. These relationships will possibly bring you back business and future introductions.
Actually, just showing that you are ready to pay already puts you in a good light. Watching others argue puts you on the margin. In #China, don’t try to suggest to split the bill. This really makes you look bad.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/luxuefei_china-linkedin-culture-activity-6714078477122842624-5Z06