What is the purpose of anti-bribery laws?

The purpose of anti-bribery laws is primarily to prevent corruption in business transactions. These laws are designed to prohibit the offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of bribes or anything of value in order to influence the actions of an official or another party in a business context. By enforcing these laws, governments and regulatory bodies aim to maintain fairness, transparency, and integrity in both domestic and international business operations.

The impact of anti-bribery laws extends beyond mere compliance; they help to foster a level playing field where businesses can compete based on merit rather than unethical practices. This contributes to economic stability and public trust in institutions. By regulating and penalizing corrupt practices, these laws discourage behavior that undermines free markets and equitable competition. Overall, the central aim is to safeguard the integrity of business processes and ensure that decisions are made in an ethical manner.