Business Customs Business customs in South Africa are generally similar to those in the United States and Western Europe. South African business people tend to dress conservatively. Loud sports jackets and slacks are rarely seen at work. South African business women tend to wear woolen or woven cotton blend suits in the cooler months April through August. In the warmer months cotton or linen suits are appropriate.
Men tend to favor medium or heavy woolen suits for year-round wear.
A medium-weight overcoat is recommended for the colder months of April through August. Business cards are usually simple, including only the basics such as company logo, name, business title, address, telephone number, and fax number. South Africans are very punctual, and South African business persons make every effort to be on time for appointments. Appointments should be made in advance of a business call. U.S. citizens traveling to South Africa require a passport valid passport.