In China there isn't really a private/public divide like the U.S., bribing and knowing people in government is absolutely essential in China. Sure, it helps in the U.S. (and every other country), but it's not essential. China is a different beast. Doing business in mainland China is quite the experience, I know of no one who actually likes doing it. The Chinese are still communists after all, and if you have a supplier there...they are not loyal. They will knock your stuff off in a heart beat as soon as you leave.