Business Decisions

Without a doubt China’s market is a huge attraction toward companies around the world. As the middle class continues to grow, currently standing at 400 million people representing 1/3 of its population, international brands all want a piece of the pie. The key component to doing business in China is never to comment on its politics, especially with the current atmosphere people tends to be sensitive. Ironically, a few well known brands all had run-ins with the Communist party this month.

Despite deleting the tweet, Daryl Morey found himself in hot water when the Houston Rockets owner rushed in to clarify his comments doesn’t represent the team. Morey has since deleted it but apparently feelings have been hurt. This prompted Commissioner Adam Silver scrambling to smooth things over with a state-backed billion dollar market while maintaining his “support” of free speech as a good ol’ American would.

NBA issued the following statement to clarify their position:

It is a pretty smooth statement apologizing that people feelings got hurt and keeping it neutral with regards to free speech. However the Chinese translation they issued on their Chinese social media accounts seem to elicit a different narrative.

Some of you probably can’t read Chinese so if you have any faith in me, the following is the translation:

We are disappointed in the incorrect statement of Houston Rockets GM Darryl Morey. He undoubtedly seriously damaged the feelings of Chinese basketball fans. Morey has clarified that his opinion is not representing the views of the Rockets and NBA. Under NBA’s values people can deeply explore their passion and share their own views. We greatly respect China’s history, wishing the sport and NBA can merge to positive energy, continue bridging the gap of international cultures and bringing people together.

In a hilarious fashion, NBA spokesman Mike Bass clarified on the differing meanings in the mandarin version by saying:

“We have seen various interpretations of the translation of the Mandarin version, but our statement in English is the league’s official statement.” 

Or in other words, let us say what we want in Mandarin but trust us, in America we’re very American. It is ironic how this is an inconvenient time to use NBA’s platform to express opinions on human rights. It was a different narrative during Kapernick’s controversial kneeling during anthem. A self-proclaimed rights movement leading Nike to even sell merchandise in support also boosting its share price. However when facing a CCP regime who would turn you away from their 1.4 billion people strong market, human rights aren’t a equal trade.

Another global brand, Tiffany faced severe backlash from Chinese consumers on social media, as their recent advert resembled an offensive sign during sensitive times.

If you’re unsure why this is significant, it is because a female protester lost her right eye in Hong Kong when the police started using rubber bullets and bean bag rounds. In support of her, Hong Kongers covered their right eye in protest and condemn the actions of the police force exercising violence on peaceful protesters.

On a hilarious note, another company took a different approach dealing with China. South Park well known for its satire and merciless approach to poke fun at social issues aired its new episode “Band in China.” Pointing its abuse of human rights, to its pro-party judicial system and even mocking how Winnie the Pooh is banned in China due to citizens laughing at its resemblance with President Xi Jin Ping. The episode can be found here:

http://www.cc.com/episodes/4yl119/south-park-band-in-china-season-23-ep-2302