Gifts for Chinese Business Acquaintances Whether you are starting a business relationship or furthering an existing one, a tasteful gift will go a long way in developing and maintaining the relationship. Engraved pens ---Whether it's a nice pen from your company or engraved with the recipient's name it's a practical gift that will get used time and time again. Local Snacks ---Giving a food gift from your area is both a great gift and conservative starter. A great first-time gift idea. Cigarettes and Alcohol ---These are popular and well-received by most businessmen. Even if they don't drink or smoke they can re-gift it to someone who does. Foreign wines of liquors go over well with close business associates.