Analysis of the anti-corruption strategies in the construction sector of China

Abstract

While various anti-corruption strategies (ACSs) have been developed to curb the widespread corruption in the construction sector, effectiveness of these ACSs has seldom been investigated. This study, therefore, aims to identify and evaluate the ACSs being implemented in China. To achieve these objectives, a comprehensive literature review and a two-round Delphi survey of 14 experienced industry experts and academics were conducted. Survey results reveal that the most effective ACS is legal framework, followed by penal sanction, regulations, positive leadership, adequate institutions, transparency, economic sanction, administrative sanction, and education and training. Also, the results show that the effectiveness of raising the wage level as an anti-corruption strategy did not receive a high evaluation by the Delphi panel. Findings of this study can help enhance a better understanding of anticorruption strategies and thus improve a corruption-free environment.