Daimler has pleaded guilty to corruption charges brought by the US Justice Department and Securities and Exchange Commission, agreeing to pay a $185 million (£122m) fine.
US prosecutors alleged that between 1988 and 2008, Daimler paid at least $56,m (£37m) in bribes to foreign officials in at least 22 countries. These included China, Russia, Egypt, Greece and Nigeria.
Specific bribe claims included the allegation that Daimler spent 11,000 euros (£10,000) on a luxury vacation in Europe for six Chinese officials.
In another case, Daimler is alleged to have tried to enter the Turkmenistan market by giving two armored vehicles worth at least 550,000 euros (£363,000) to a senior government official.
Speaking following the announcement of the fine, US prosecutor John Darden acknowledged Daimler's willingness to work with prosecutors.
"Daimler showed excellent co-operation," said Darden. "The company has undertaken an effort to clean its own house. That reflects a serious change of mind on part of Daimler. This deserves credit."
Daimler also sacked about 45 employees and disciplined another 300 people that were connected to the case.
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Re: Daimler's £122m bribery fine
Re: Daimler's £122m bribery fine
This came to light when Daimler-Benz joined forces with Chrysler and Chryslers auditors realised what the Germans were up to.