Know your partner or potential partner, avoid the “same bed, different dreams” problem, and make certain that your interests are aligned.

Understand regional differences; focus on regions in which your market strategy works best, rule of law and market order are strongest, and policy environment is most favorable.

Understand the rules of the game: the written laws and regulations of the government and the unwritten rules in the industry and region you are entering.

Protect your intellectual property and make use of the tools available to you under Chinese law.

Build a great local team, trust it, make certain your company’s interest and the team's are bound together, and treat team members as you would like to be treated.

Be aware of the most current economic reforms and how they might affect your enterprise.

If you don't speak Chinese, make smart decisions about how to compensate.