In Japan, the Exchange of Meishi Is the Most Basic

In Japan, the exchange of meishi is the most basic of social rituals in a nation where social ritual matters very much. The act of exchanging meishi is weighted with meaning. Once the social minuet is completed, the two know where they stand in relation to each other and their respective statures within the hierarchy of corporate or government bureaucracy. What is "meishi"?

A) shaking hands
B) exchange of business cards
C) introductions by a third party
D) formal invitation
E) bows