Cultural guide to doing business in Bishkek, Kyrgystan
General etiquette
The majority of people in the Kyrgyz Republic are ethnic Kyrgyz, though there are substantial minorities of Russians and Uzbeks. Most Kyrgyz people speak the official language of Kyrgyz, which is actively promoted by the state, but Russian continues to be widely spoken and used in business.
Most Kyrgyz are Muslims, so Kyrgyz customs reflect this, albeit in a highly modified form. Head-covering is not required for women and alcohol is widely available and used. Women have a higher profile than in most Islamic countries.
Like neighbouring Kazakhstan, this is a very hierarchical society, where both important people and elders are treated with great respect. Kyrgyz still attach great significance to family structures, which are subordinate to a number of key clans, which are divided into two federations.
At the heart of Kyrgyz traditions, are the old requirements of their nomadic culture. Hospitality is central. As a guest you will be made to feel important and welcome. If invited to someone's home for a meal, you should accept and expect to be treated with generosity; you may well even sent away with a doggy bag of leftovers.
Kyrgyz of the same gender may sit and stand very close to you; try to go along with this rather than moving away. Don't be surprised if you never see a queue; waiting in line is not a Kyrgyz priority. Nor do the Kyrgyz smile much on the street.
Business etiquette
Business dress is conservative: dark suit and tie or equivalent. Be sure to include titles and qualifications on business cards. If you want to impress or stand out, translate one side into Russian. In this hierarchical society, your card is important in establishing your credentials and status.
As in other countries in the area, the establishing of a personal relationship is central to doing business in the Kyrgyz Republic. Enjoy the process, as your counterpart gets to know you over tea (and sweets) or a meal.
At a meeting, shake hands with everyone present, both when you arrive and leave. People are likely to be seated according to importance, on both sides. ‘Keeping face' is a key consideration here, so Kyrgyz may go out of their way to be tactful when telling you things. Women have traditionally played more prominent roles in business here than elsewhere in the region.
General business information
The working week follows the Western pattern, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. Though Friday is the Muslim holy day, offices are still open. The usual Muslim holidays are celebrated, though under different local names, Kurban Ait and Orozo Ait. Ramadan, the month preceding, is best avoided for business. Other public holidays are: 1 January, 7 January (Orthodox Christmas), 8 March (Women's Day), 21 March (Nooruz), 1 May (Labour Day), 5 May (Constitution Day), 9 May (Victory Day), 31 August (Independence Day), 7 November (People's Unity Day).
The Kyrgyz Republic is an almost entirely cash-based society, so it's wise to take new, large-denomination $US notes with you for exchange into Som.
International dialling code: +996