Cape Town Economy

Business practices in Cape Town and South Africa are very similar to those in the UK and USA. Despite the fact that Cape Town is more informal than Johannesburg, most industries do expect a suit and tie. The more modern or artistic industries, such as IT and the media, tend to display a more informal attitude to dress. However, it is advisable for foreign business visitors to maintain formality and only wear casual clothes when the after-hours entertainment begins.

Business hours are Monday to Friday 0900-1700, although many companies finish earlier on a Friday. The exchanging of business cards is important in Cape Town and a firm handshake between both men and women is common.

Socialising is a big part of the business scene in Cape Town and much business is conducted over lunch. Wine will more than likely be included and visitors should note that South African wines often have a slightly stronger alcohol content than the majority of European wines. Capetonians pride themselves on being hospitable to foreign visitors and an invitation to a business contact's home is not unusual. These will, more than likely, take the form of a braai (barbecue), which tend to last throughout the entire afternoon and often into the night. Alcohol flows freely here and a gift of a bottle of wine is always appreciated, unless the host is Muslim, in which instance alcohol is strictly forbidden.