Writer: Daniel Benin || Investigative Journalist OHIM TV
Over the past 20 years of close interaction and networking with the Chinese community in Ghana, I have come to appreciate a number of deeply rooted cultural values that continue to shape their behavior, work ethic, and worldview.
With growing friction and misunderstandings between some Ghanaians and Chinese nationals, it has become necessary to share these insights—not only to promote better cultural understanding but also to foster a more harmonious environment for cooperation and development.
This article is not just an observation but an invitation: for Ghanaians to re-examine some of our assumptions and embrace valuable lessons from the Chinese way of life, especially in business and interpersonal relations.
- The Power of a Promise: Integrity Above All
One of the most striking qualities of the Chinese people is their unwavering commitment to keeping promises. If a Chinese businessperson or colleague gives you their word—whether it’s about work, finances, or any agreement—they will go to great lengths to fulfill it.
In Chinese culture, a promise is sacred. It is tied directly to one’s reputation, dignity, and long-term success.
Unlike in some environments where promises are taken lightly or broken without consequence, the Chinese see the fulfillment of a promise as a measure of personal honor.
Ghanaians can benefit greatly by adopting this principle in business and social dealings.
Trust, once broken, is difficult to repair—especially in Chinese relationships, no matter how long you’ve known each other.
- Work Ethics: No Room for Laziness
For the Chinese, work is more than just a source of income—it is a core pillar of their identity and survival. Their commitment to productivity is unmatched. They don’t joke with their jobs, and laziness is simply not tolerated.
They believe that work is what sustains families, builds futures, and keeps society functioning.
As such, whether they are in their homeland or abroad, they bring this same discipline to every task.
If you’re privileged to work with the Chinese, be prepared to match their pace and with that same level of seriousness.
Break times are strictly observed—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—but outside these, it’s all about focus and results.
- Language and Cultural Misunderstandings
A significant barrier between Chinese nationals and local communities is the language difference.
Most Chinese people do not speak English fluently, as their national development has been anchored in their own language, Mandarin.
This language gap often results in miscommunication, misinterpretation, and sometimes mistrust.
In many cases, the locals also lack knowledge about Chinese culture, making it easy to misread their intentions or behavior.
To bridge this gap, both sides must make a conscious effort—locals should learn more about Chinese customs and communication styles, while the Chinese can be encouraged to make basic efforts to integrate linguistically.
- Dishonesty: A Deal Breaker
The Chinese despise dishonesty. They are extremely wary of individuals who lie, manipulate, or try to take undue advantage of them.
Once they sense dishonesty—whether in business or friendship—the relationship is effectively over.
Even after years of knowing you, the moment you betray their trust, they will distance themselves completely.
Ghanaians who wish to build lasting partnerships with Chinese individuals must recognize that honesty and transparency are non-negotiable.
- To The Chinese, Money Comes Second to Trust and Delivery
Another cultural trait worth emulating is the Chinese approach to money in business. Contrary to what some may expect, the Chinese do not prioritize money in the initial stages of a partnership.
If you approach them with a business idea but lead with money demands, they are likely to become disinterested.
For them, your credibility, work ethic, and ability to deliver are far more important. Once trust and execution are established, money and other benefits will follow naturally.
- Reading Between the Lines: Body Language Matters
The Chinese are highly observant people. Even if language becomes a barrier, they often rely on non-verbal cues—facial expressions, body posture, tone—to judge character and intent.
Any inconsistency in body language or unspoken discomfort is quickly noticed, and it can damage the relationship.
They appreciate openness, directness, and sincerity—while detesting side conversations, gossip, or murmurs during meetings and at workplaces.
- Addressing Unfair Treatment and Misconceptions
Unfortunately, in some parts of Ghana, there have been cases where certain individuals in authority, often in collaboration with local actors, have falsely accused or framed Chinese nationals for crimes they did not commit—especially around issues like illegal mining.
There are disturbing reports of deportations carried out without due process, with the goal of seizing Chinese-owned assets, properties and money.
These actions not only undermine Ghana’s reputation but also discourages genuine investors.
In some cases, Chinese business owners, due to language limitations, entrust local intermediaries to manage salaries and contracts with employees—only for these middle Ghana men to exploit both parties, resulting in misunderstandings and misplaced blame on the Chinese.
- Development Requires Partnership, Not Hostility
No nation has achieved sustained progress without the support of foreigners, immigrants, or international partners. Ghana is no different.
The Chinese have made and continue to make significant contributions to Ghana’s economy—in construction, mining, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
Rather than fueling resentment, we must leverage their expertise, capital, and drive. We must also streamline and regularize operations—especially in the mining sector—so that both Chinese investors and local communities can thrive under clear, fair, and lawful guidelines.
In Conclusion: Respect, Learn, Grow
The Chinese people mean well and have great intentions for Ghana. But it takes mutual understanding, cultural awareness, and fair treatment to unlock the full potential of this partnership.
Let us move away from prejudice and suspicion, and instead embrace values that will serve our collective progress—discipline, integrity, diligence, and honesty.
These are values the Chinese live by—and Ghanaians, too, can benefit immensely by learning from them.
