China’s war on corruption doubles punishment for bribery as tough new rules take effect
- Revisions to criminal law increase prison terms to 10 years for private sector representatives found guilty of offering bribes
- Repeat offenders face life in prison, as authorities move to clearly define bribery violations
China’s top police, prosecutors and judges have vowed to enforce tougher new penalties against people who offer bribes – a new front in Chinese President Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption drive.
Under amendments to the criminal law that took effect on Friday, representatives from companies or other entities found guilty of paying bribes now face 10 years in prison – up from the previous maximum of five years’ imprisonment.
People found guilty of repeatedly paying bribes could face life imprisonment, and confiscation of their property. Previously, the law did not clearly define what actions could lead to tougher penalties.
In July, draft revisions to the law were submitted for deliberation to the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, China’s top legislature. After two readings, the revisions were approved in late December.
The amendments to seven provisions in the criminal law specify heavier penalties that could be handed to repeat offenders, people found guilty of paying bribes to multiple people, and to those who bribe state employees. Representatives from companies or entities found guilty of paying bribes could also face increased maximum prison terms.
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In remarks published in a state media report on Friday, senior officials from China’s top legislative body, courts, procuratorate and the Ministry of Public Security pledged to improve their implementation of the amended law.