Etiquette in Peru

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Peru, a country in western South America, is home to over 30.5 million people.

The official language is Spanish. Although many business people speak English, written documents should be presented in Spanish or in both Spanish and English.

Peru is a unitary presidential constitutional republic.

Heavily influenced by Spanish colonization, over 90% of the population is Catholic and religion plays a significant part in daily life in Peru. Traditional Indian beliefs also have an influence on Peruvian life and culture.

The Nuevo Sol (S/) is the currency of Peru. It is subdivided into 100 cents, called céntimos.

Entertaining Etiquette

Discussing business over dinner is not common. If you do entertain over dinner, select a prestigious restaurant and be sure to include spouses.

Dinner invitations are commonly at 9 pm, although guests typically arrive about 30 minutes late. Expect food to be served at 10:30 pm. Allow time to stay for about 30 minutes after the meal has ended.

When visiting Peru on business, stay at a first class hotel and use it as a place to host meetings or luncheons.

If you plan to make an invitation to lunch or dinner during negotiations, invite only the key players. Once the deal is complete, invite everyone involved on the project.

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