How to Barter for Goods in a Taiwanese Market

Taiwan has had more malls than markets for many years now, but there are still places where the bargain you find is dependent on your bartering skills. There are both night and day markets on the street or in roofed structures without much for walls. Instead of giant discount stores, many locals in Taiwan get their household goods, plants and artwork at these temporary markets. The nature of the Taiwanese market is closer to those in the West, but there is still room for making a deal.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Positive attitude
• Small calculator
• Cash, with plenty of small bills
• Time

1. Canvass the overall market to see what you are interested in purchasing and see if other vendors are carrying similar items.

2. Inquire about the opening price at a number of different vendors once you know what you want to buy. If there is wide disparity among the prices, then you know to avoid the ones asking for the highest prices.

3. Choose the shop you would like to do business with based on the friendliness of the operator and your initial data. Pick one that is not so busy as the shopkeeper will not want others to overhear your deal.

4. Ask first before handling objects. If it is difficult to reach, the shopkeeper will be happy to do the necessary acrobatics versus risking any mishaps in a crowded place.

5. Offer 50% less than the asking price. This may bring forth much grumbling from the shop keeper. Match each grumble with a smile. If they are not coming down in price yet, ask for their best price.

6. Respond that is is still too expensive and feign disinterest and begin to look at other items halfheartedly.

7. Offer cash as you get closer to the price that you find acceptable. Cash is king (and queen).

8. Prepare to exit the shop or stall without the item, but make your way slowly and casually. If they know you are prepared to walk away, you will generally get your best price.

Tips & Warnings

• Politeness and respect are always the best tools for this process.
• If you are not interested in buying, do not waste the shopkeeper's time.
• Sometimes, offering U.S. dollars can help, but it depends on the exchange rate and other things. Do not be offended if they are not interested.
• If you are buying more than one, let them know and ask for a volume discount, even if is only for two items
• Some shopkeepers are not interested in bartering, so do not badger them if the negotiation is not getting started.
• Do not buy pirated or knock off items, it is illegal.
• You break it, you buy it.
• Do not flash big money, always carry small change and keep your wallet/handbag close. Markets are ripe for pick pockets.