China's top legislature to review draft law against cross-border corruption

China is considering a new draft law aimed at tackling cross-border corruption, as part of broader efforts to protect national security and development interests.

This draft law on combating cross-border corruption was submitted for its first review on Tuesday to the ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the country's top legislative body.

The draft law comprises 47 articles spread across six chapters, outlining China's principles, scope, and approach to combating cross-border corruption. It also specifies the mechanisms and responsibilities of each department involved in this effort, calling for enhancing international cooperation and clarifying the integrity and compliance obligations of enterprises operating across borders.

The formulation of the law aims to align with the central leadership's strategies for combating cross-border corruption and to expedite the creation of a comprehensive legal framework addressing foreign-related corruption issues, according to the National Commission of Supervision.

Making such a law, the commission said, also underscores China's firm stance against corruption and is intended to regulate the healthy development of businesses operating internationally. It seeks to foster a business environment that is market-oriented, governed by law, and globally competitive.

Additionally, the draft law represents an innovative step in expanding the legal "toolbox" for repatriating fugitives, recovering assets, and handling corruption cases that involve foreign elements. It aims to bolster the country's capabilities in combating cross-border corruption, the commission added.