Thai consumers are the most generous when it comes to tipping, overtaking Bangladesh and claiming the top spot in this year’s MasterCard survey in Asia-Pacific.
The research is based on a survey conducted between October and November 2013 with 7,932 respondents aged 18–64 in 14 Asia-Pacific countries.
Thailand (84 percent) edged out last year’s leader – Bangladesh – to take pride of place as the region’s of top tipper. People in Bangladesh appeared more frugal this year with 80 percent saying they generally tipped compared with a high 88 percent at the same time last year.
On average, across the region, 4 in 10 consumers are accustomed to leaving a tip behind after a good meal in a restaurant, while in Thailand tipping is common among 8 in 10 consumers. Men (43 percent) appeared more inclined to leave behind a gratuity for service compared to women (36 percent). Older consumers (above the age of 45) were generally quicker to reach for their wallets with 42 percent of people leaving tips behind. This was compared with 37 percent of people between the ages of 18 and 29.
“Tipping in Asia can be confusing because the region holds diverse views towards the practice. Cultural nuances can make tipping a rule of thumb in some Asian markets, while in others it can be discouraged or even considered rude," said Georgette Tan, group head, Communications, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, MasterCard.