The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act makes it unlawful for a business or individual “corruptly” to offer, pay, promise to pay or authorize payment of anything of value to a foreign government official for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or securing any improper business advantage.
Since its initial passage in 1977, few laws have resulted in more misconceptions than the FCPA. It has far greater reach than most recognize, and severe penalties can — and often do — result from misjudging the scope and breadth of the law. This article clears up some of those misconceptions.
