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The effect of the anti‐corruption campaign in China: Evidence from housing transactions

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  • Yongqiang Chu
  • Weida Kuang
  • Daxuan Zhao

Abstract

Using price discounts government officials receive when buying new housing units as a measure of corruption in China, we examine the effect of the anti‐corruption campaign launched by the Xi Jinping administration in 2012. We find that the discounts decrease sharply after the campaign. On the other hand, we find no effect of the campaign on existing housing sales. Furthermore, officials become less likely to purchase housing units with lucky numbers. Overall, the results suggest that the anti‐corruption campaign is effective in curbing corruption.

Suggested Citation

  • Yongqiang Chu & Weida Kuang & Daxuan Zhao, 2025. "The effect of the anti‐corruption campaign in China: Evidence from housing transactions," Economic Inquiry, Western Economic Association International, vol. 63(4), pages 1232-1251, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ecinqu:v:63:y:2025:i:4:p:1232-1251
    DOI: 10.1111/ecin.70002
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