Two written expressions reflect China's penal policies to date: (1) policy of combining punishment with leniency; and (2) policy of punishing serious criminal offenses as drastically and as soon as possible within limits determined by the law. China currently pursues drastic penal policies to contain crime. Even with drastic penal policies, however, crime in China has been increasing over the past decade and Chinese criminologists are questioning a harsh penal approach. The concern of government officials about crime is discussed, particularly in the context of economic development. Legal traditions of severely punishing criminals are considered, as well as the desire of Chinese authorities to enhance international criminal justice cooperation. 1 note