On February 10, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Justice to halt enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) of 1977, which prohibits U.S. companies from bribing foreign officials to secure business deals. The administration argues that the FCPA places American businesses at a disadvantage compared to international competitors who engage in such practices, thereby affecting national security and economic interests. The directive instructs Attorney General Pam Bondi to suspend FCPA-related prosecutions until new guidelines are established to promote American competitiveness. 

Critics, including organizations like Transparency International, contend that this move undermines the United States' leadership in combating global corruption. They express concern that pausing FCPA enforcement could lead to increased corruption and weaken international anti-corruption efforts. 

This action represents a significant shift in U.S. anti-corruption policy, with potential implications for both domestic and international business practices