China Clamps Downs Harder on Local Government Shakedowns of Private Businesses

China is intensifying a nationwide campaign to rectify abusive administrative enforcement practices that burden businesses, including an early warning system flagging localities where fines and confiscated revenues surge, a senior justice official said Wednesday.

“We conduct real-time statistical analysis of work situations nationwide and issue timely alerts and warnings,” said Hu Weilie, Vice Minister of Justice, at a State Council Information Office press conference. "For example, if revenue from fines and confiscations increases by more than 20% year-on-year, it’s set as an alert value, requiring the relevant local authorities to explain the situation before corresponding measures are taken.”