Story perspectives

U.S. Seeks $1 Billion Settlement with ZTE Over Corruption

12/11/2025

26 4

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Justice Department is pursuing a settlement with ZTE Corp over alleged Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations tied to contracts in South America, especially Venezuela, that could exceed $1 billion.
ZTE Corp has previously paid around $2 billion in penalties for export violations.
Any settlement would require approval from the Chinese government.
If unresolved, the United States could reinstate a ban on American suppliers, potentially disrupting ZTE's operations.

1 of 1

Story summary

The U.S. Justice Department is pursuing a settlement with ZTE Corp over alleged Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations tied to contracts in South America, especially Venezuela, that could exceed $1 billion.
ZTE Corp has previously paid around $2 billion in penalties for export violations.
Any settlement would require approval from the Chinese government.
If unresolved, the United States could reinstate a ban on American suppliers, potentially disrupting ZTE's operations.