Custom not to be a defence

• It shall not be a defence to show that any such advantage accepted or offered is customary in any profession, trade, vocation or calling.

Verbal agreement counts

• The offeror and the acceptor are liable even if only a verbal agreement of corruption is reached and the purpose of bribery has not been carried out.

Maximum penalties

• A fine of HK$500,000 and imprisonment for 7 years if contravening section 4, 8, 9 or 9(3).
• Payment of the full or partial amount or value of the advantages received by the offender to such person or institution as the court directs.

Full text of the PBO