The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Made Simple

Due to widespread corruption in international trade, Congress enacted the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, or FCPA, in 1977. It requires all U.S. businesses be forthright and honest in their international dealings, and sets forth significant penalties, including jail time, for those found to have violated its provisions. After all, bribes and kickbacks, which are common in many countries, threaten market growth and limit the opportunities for more law-abiding businesses. This training video provides information concerning the FCPA, its terms, and the possible ramifications for violating those terms.

The FCPA is designed to level the playing field for all businesses interested in foreign trade. It has two main components: anti-bribery and accounting. This course explains what companies need to look out for to avoid violating the FCPA. For example, the FCPA dictates it is illegal for businesses or individuals to order, offer, or assist in giving bribes or kickbacks to foreign government officials in order to gain a business advantage within a particular country. These bribes can come in many forms, and even promising something of value without actually giving it is illegal. Intent is paramount. The FCPA also requires publicly traded companies keep truthful and accurate records, including filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in order to prevent possible corruption.

The FCPA covers a broad range of parties. For example, its provisions control those working in official capacities for a government, as well as third party companies or individuals assisting businesses in a foreign country. Foreign companies in the U.S. may also be prosecuted; individuals may be prosecuted regardless of the verdict against their company as well. It is critical to know these distinctions, and you will be given examples here, as well as the risks involved in dealing with certain parties. After all, the U.S. government rarely loses FCPA cases. Utilize the materials presented in this online training course and recognize both the legal and practical implications of dealing with foreign businesses under the FCPA.

   This course is in the Video On Demand format, to read about Video On Demand features click here.

Anyone who works with foreign officials or for an organization involved in international trade of any kind

• Overview
• Anti-Bribery
• The Facilitating Payments Exemption
• Third Party Agents
• Accurate And Honest Recordkeeping
• Consequences
• Conclusion

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