Fiscal Supervision System
Fiscal supervision is the fundamental way to ensure fiscal expenditure and taxpayer funds are used effectively. In China, the Ministry of Finance and the State Council Audit Office are responsible for the fiscal supervision over local governments and public institutions.
The fiscal supervision system has three key aspects: budgetary control, financial inspections, and auditing. Budgetary control refers to the comprehensive monitoring of local government budgets to ensure they reflect the central governments fiscal policies. Financial inspections detect any irregular cases of accounting fraud and improper accounting practices. Auditing involves reviewing, testing and evaluating financial statements and local government accounts to ensure the accuracy of financial information, assess the internal control environment, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
The goal of fiscal supervision is to strengthen fiscal discipline and promote effective fiscal management. To achieve this, China has implemented a range of measures to strengthen fiscal supervision, including increasing budget transparency and strengthening internal control systems, introducing a system of fiscal responsibility and accountability among local governments, and strengthening fiscal audit systems.
Budget transparency is one of the most important components of fiscal supervision in China. The Budget Law and the Budget Management Regulations provide for detailed disclosure of budget information. This information is then made available to the public, allowing for better oversight of government finances and the use of taxpayer funds.
Internal control systems are also used to ensure the efficient, responsible, and transparent use of government funds. To cover the entire range of government activities, the ministry of finance has established an internal control system divided into five categories: strategic management, personnel and organization, financial management, economic activities, and information management.
The system of fiscal responsibility and accountability among local governments was introduced in 2012 to ensure greater fiscal discipline among local governments. Under the system, local governments are held accountable for any deficits and overspending. Local officials must ensure budgets are implemented in an accurate and responsible manner. If needed, they may be held criminally liable for irregularities or misuse of funds.
Finally, to strengthen the audit system, the State Council Audit Office has expanded its scope of auditing to include contracts for government projects, major government financial investments, salaries, youth employment and other public welfare activities, as well as loan defaults. The State Council Audit Office also inspects accounts and books of local governments, public institutions and enterprises, to ensure accuracy and compliance with the law.
In conclusion, the Chinese government is committed to strengthening fiscal supervision to promote more effective and responsible use of taxpayer funds. Through increased budget transparency, improved internal control systems, a system of fiscal responsibility and accountability, and an strengthened audit system, the Chinese government is striving to ensure taxpayer funds are used in a responsible and transparent manner.