Short answer: A public official convicted of corruption in China, whether by embezzling public funds or taking bribes, is sentenced under Article 383 of the Criminal Law: up to 3 years in prison for relatively small amounts, 3 to 10 years for large amounts, and 10 years to life imprisonment or even the death penalty for extremely large or serious cases.

How does China punish corrupt officials?

Embezzlement of public funds by officials (Article 382) and acceptance of bribes by officials (Article 385) are both punished under Article 383. Fines or confiscation of property are added at every level, and amounts from multiple offenses are added together.

An official who confesses and returns the stolen money before prosecution may receive a lighter sentence. In the most serious cases, involving very large amounts and major losses, the law allows life imprisonment or the death penalty, which in practice is usually imposed with a two-year reprieve.

Do people who pay bribes also go to prison?

Yes. Giving a bribe to a public official is a separate crime under Article 389 of the Criminal Law, and serious or repeated bribery can bring long prison terms as well.

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Frequently asked questions

Q: How does China punish corrupt officials?

A: Embezzlement of public funds by officials (Article 382) and acceptance of bribes by officials (Article 385) are both punished under Article 383. Fines or confiscation of property are added at every level, and amounts from multiple offenses are added together. An official who confesses and returns the stolen money before prosecution may receive a lighter sentence.

Q: Do people who pay bribes also go to prison?

A: Giving a bribe to a public official is a separate crime under Article 389 of the Criminal Law, and serious or repeated bribery can bring long prison terms as well.

Wang Guan | Co-founder, Beijing Haolue Law Firm | +86 17813108512