JINAN, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- Cai Xiyou, former general manager of state-owned chemical firm Sinochem Group, was sentenced to 12 years in prison Wednesday for taking bribes.

He was also fined 3 million yuan (435,000 U.S. dollars), the Tai'an Intermediate People's Court in Shandong Province announced.

Cai pleaded guilty at the court and decided not to appeal.

The court trial found that between 1997 and 2016, Cai had used his various posts, including being a senior executive of Chinese oil giant Sinopec Corp., as well as the conveniences from his power and positions, to provide help for other units and individuals regarding contract issues and petroleum product purchases and sales.

In return, he had asked for and illegally accepted money and gifts worth over 53.7 million yuan, the court said.

The court said Xi was given a lenient sentence, given that he confessed to all of his crimes, provided clues for the investigation of other serious violations, showed repentance and was cooperative in returning all his illegal gains.