China steps up anti-corruption efforts in key sectors to boost public trust

China's supervisory authorities have intensified efforts to combat corruption and misconduct in areas directly affecting residents' daily lives, aiming to enhance public security, happiness, and well-being, according to a report presented to lawmakers on Sunday.

The report, delivered by Liu Jinguo, head of the National Commission of Supervision, was submitted to the ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislative body. It outlined efforts to crack down on corruption in major fields of public concern, particularly in healthcare, education, and other sectors linked to public services.

Since the beginning of the year, China's top anti-graft body has investigated or pushed for the resolution of 2,633 cases of misconduct, Liu reported. Medical corruption, a major source of public dissatisfaction due to its impact on healthcare costs and doctor-patient relationships, has been a primary target. Liu emphasized the need for stronger measures to curb practices like "red envelopes" — cash gifts from patients to doctors — which are seen as a form of bribery despite being illegal under Chinese law.

Given the lack of trust between doctors and patients, such informal payments have become widespread. Some patients worry that failing to offer bribes could lead to subpar treatment. In addition to investigating these informal payments, authorities are also focusing on embezzlement within China's medical insurance system.

The report revealed that around 40,000 individuals have faced disciplinary action for medical misconduct, with 2,634 cases involving serious violations referred to prosecutors for further investigation.

In the education sector, the report highlighted the crackdown on food safety violations in schools, including misuse of funds intended for student meals, kickbacks in food procurement, and other financial irregularities. Liu said that supervisory departments had disciplined 23,000 individuals involved in such misconducts.

Other areas under scrutiny include business operations, workplace safety, and the exploitation of vulnerable groups. Supervisory authorities also launched a nationwide campaign to combat corruption in the funeral and burial industry in November, with the initiative set to run for one year.

Liu called for continued high-pressure efforts to tackle corruption in sectors that directly affect the public's livelihood. "We will further address issues related to rural revitalization funds, medical insurance management, and elderly care services to meet the public's needs," he said.