Prosecutors told to properly handle crimes by entrepreneurs

Prosecutors nationwide have been told to properly handle crimes that involve entrepreneurs to protect their legitimate rights and interests so as to increase their sense of security and confidence in innovation, according to a circular released Tuesday by the top procuratorate.

Business activities such as company operations and fundraising should not be treated as crimes, unless the activities are clearly banned by laws or administrative regulations. While handling cases of suspected bribe offerings, prosecutors should distinguish whether it was conducted by the individual or by the company and consider multiple factors such as the purpose and frequency while evaluating the social harm, the Supreme People's Procuratorate said.

Crimes that infringe upon property rights should be seriously dealt with to protect entrepreneurs' legitimate rights, including their asset rights, innovation and rights of independent management, the circular said.

Prosecutors are also told to better supervise police and courts to prevent civil disputes from being handled as economic crimes to ensure a fair environment for entrepreneurs.

Prosecutors should also be careful while handling related cases to "reduce as much as possible" the negative impact on normal business operations and legitimate rights of entrepreneurs, according to the top procuratorate.