Avoid these international business risks

International business travel carries plenty of risks, but none are as subtle as potentially offending your hosts.

Yet thanks to business travel website ctbusinesstravel.co.uk, travelers can stave off potential politeness pitfalls and business blunders.

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In several countries, the simple act of accepting a business card carries risks, the website warns. Two hands are required in Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Taiwan; but in India and Israel the two-hand requirement includes handling the offered card “with respect.”

Communication is often a subtle art, but in Germany business travelers are reminded to be direct “to the point of bluntness.”

In France, it's recommended that one immediately apologize for not speaking French (but do so in French); and in Russia, too much smiling risks a perception of insincerity.

Rules on toasts and table manners also abound, but one thing is certain in South Korea: “Be prepared to sing a solo karaoke number after dinner,” the website says.