Exploring the desirability and feasibility of reforming china's governmental accounting system

Abstract

In response to increasing pressures for public sector efficiency and effectiveness, many countries have switched from cash-based governmental accounting to accrual-based approaches. But other countries have rejected this change, suggesting that its costs and benefits may vary with country-specific factors. To gain insights into the desirability and feasibility of changing China’s governmental accounting from the current cash-based system to one based on the accrual approach, we survey 608 Chinese government staff and officials who either prepare or use such reports. These respondents identify a number of specific inadequacies in the current system and express widespread support for converting towards an accrual-based approach. They also assess the severity of potential impediments to change and the most workable arrangement and timetable for such a change.

Citation

Chang, C.J., Chen, G. and Chow, C.W. (2008), "Exploring the desirability and feasibility of reforming china's governmental accounting system", Journal of Public Budgeting, Accounting & Financial Management, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 523-550. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPBAFM-20-04-2008-B006