In a controversial executive order, President Donald Trump has directed the U.S. Department of Justice to halt prosecutions under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) of 1977, a law that prohibits American companies from bribing foreign officials to secure business deals.
The executive order, signed on Monday, February 10, 2025, mandates Attorney General Pam Bondi to pause all FCPA investigations until she issues revised enforcement guidelines that prioritize U.S. economic competitiveness.
“Future FCPA investigations and enforcement actions will be governed by this new guidance and must be approved by the Attorney General,” the document states.
Trump Administration’s Justification
The White House argues that the FCPA places U.S. businesses at a disadvantage, as their foreign competitors are not bound by similar restrictions, creating an “uneven playing field.”
“American national security depends on our companies gaining strategic commercial advantages worldwide. Excessive and unpredictable FCPA enforcement undermines U.S. competitiveness,” a White House factsheet stated.
Global Backlash Over Anti-Corruption Rollback
The move has sparked outrage among anti-corruption advocates, with Transparency International warning that suspending the FCPA weakens America’s role as a global leader in fighting corruption.
“This order diminishes—and could ultimately eliminate—the crown jewel in the U.S.’s fight against global corruption,” said Gary Kalman, Executive Director of Transparency International U.S.
Policy Shift Amid Wave of Executive Orders
Trump’s decision to halt FCPA enforcement follows a series of radical policy moves, including the dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and other global initiatives aimed at promoting democracy and transparency.
While corporate leaders may welcome deregulation, critics argue the move signals a troubling shift toward corporate impunity, with long-term consequences for international business ethics.
