Due to the dramatic increase in business contacts between China and Ecuador over the last decade, and a dearth of treatment of this topic in the cross-cultural literature, a study of cross-cultural differences between China and Ecuador seems to be indicated to provide topical support to business people in both countries. The goal of this research project is to study the differences between Chinese and Ecuadorian cultures as perceived by business people with experience of the other culture. The cultural differences are developed from the examination of intercultural encounters between Chinese and Ecuadorian business people. The current paper uses a qualitative research approach that seeks to identify guiding principles relevant for cross-cultural interactions.