New development: Fiscal transparency in China—government policy and the role of social media

Abstract

Despite a reputation for secrecy, the Chinese government recently adopted a policy of publishing official financial information. The policy applies to all levels of government in China. The information released is being amplified by the media, particularly the internet-based social media, and has triggered unprecedented public discussion about corruption in government and financial management practices. This article describes the evolution and impact of this new fiscal transparency in China, and the role of social media in transmitting government financial information and providing feedback to government. Since this information is available only in Chinese, this article also discusses its general contents.