This book is the first volume of a projected series of six handbooks on various aspects involved in contemporary encounters with China and her people. The book argues for a hands-on approach of dialogue with China, which seems to be crucial for business success in China. Bearing in mind the various present clashes with China and an increasing negative image of China internationally, the book is conceived as a handbook reflecting the experiences of observers who provide helpful hints to better understand and appreciate Chinese culture without being blindfolded by multiple traps and pitfalls.

The book features a selection of articles published in the Macau Ricci Institute Journal (MRIJ) in its first six issues from 2017 through 2020. The essays featured in this book provide elements for a frank appraisal of China's Belt and Road Initiative, by highlighting the PRC government's aspirations for the project, while examining these in the light of the practical problems encountered by both hosts and representatives among the participants in BRI projects.