Guanxi–the creation and use of networks for economic gain–is a feature of all societies, not just China’s. The Chinese, however, take it to a completely different level; it is an important part of the culture. You could reasonably say it is part of Chinese exceptionalism.
When you combine guanxi with a one-party system which lacks an independent press and judicial system, you have a blueprint for corruption. What does that mean for the periodic campaigns against corruption that are part of life in the PRC?
It means that “corruption” is synonymous with actual or potential disloyalty, or simple mistakes in playing the patronage game. Xi is more interested in rooting out opposition to his rule than in eliminating the unwarranted privileges of his friends. Corruption in the liberal democratic sense of the word is an inherent part of the Chinese system, and will never be eradicated as long as the CCP retains a monopoly on power.