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Different value systems
These may include possible different standards regarding health and safety 
regulations at work, concern for the immediate environment, prevention of 
pollution, transparency of accounting and possible corrupt practices. There 
may also be different concepts or complete lack of knowledge regarding 
quality control procedures and commercial confidentiality. Some countries 
do not have the same standards regarding human rights, religious tolerance 
and respect for minority groups. Other concerns include different labour 
practices, trade union activity and equality of opportunity.
Language difficulties
The choice of the main negotiating language can cause problems, particularly 
if English is the chosen language and the receiving culture requires inter-
preters and translators. If that is the case, interpreters will require specific 
technical knowledge so that technical details can be accurately translated. If, 
however, there is a requirement for the expatriate staff to gain fluency in the 
local language, it will be necessary to allocate time for language training well 
in advance of the implementation stage. Between 40 and 50 per cent of UK 
exports go to non- English- speaking countries and few of the new markets 
have close cultural or linguistic ties with the UK. Trainers should be skilled 
in the use of techniques for checking understanding and should possess 
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Transfer of Skills, Technology and Knowledge 249
good presentational skills. There are potential problems when other cultures 
have to deal for the first time with Western business concepts such as quality 
control, staff performance appraisal and performance targets. After years 
of operating in a business culture which has been highly centralized and 
state- controlled, with limited opportunity for personal initiative, excessive 
overstaffing and protection from any form of external competition, there is 
significant room for misunderstanding and the need for retraining.