It is our great honor to invite you to the 73rd Annual Congress of the International Institute of Public Finance (IIPF 2017), held in Tokyo, on August 18-20, 2017. There are two venues in this congress. The congress is held at the University of Tokyo, Hongo Campus on August 18 and 19 and at Kokusai Fashion Center on August 20.

The theme of the 2017 congress is fiscal reform. Growing demographic pressures and increased inequality in developed economics challenge governments' ability to maintain the existing structure of spending. Developing countries need to adjust their tax and spending to meet demands of their growing economies. Recessions put strain on government revenue and lead to higher spending on stimulus and the social safety net. Tax systems need to adjust to the new digital economy that challenges but also creates opportunities for tax administrators. Globalization requires cooperation between governments to address tax competition, avoidance and evasion. These issues and more will be topics of discussion.

Tokyo is a city of contrasting features. On one hand, Tokyo is tradition rich as a Japanese center for various cultural, political and economic activities, since the Tokugawa shogunate was established in the early seventeen century. It is surrounded by traditional buildings and spots, including Senso-Ji; an ancient Buddhist temple, Meiji-Jingu; a Shinto Shrine and Imperial Palace, former Castle of Shogun. On the other hand, Tokyo is modern and one of the greatest metropolises in the world. Spots as Ginza and Akihabara are the forefront of Japanese fashion and contemporary culture. Tokyo Skytree, the high rise tower, among other architecture in Tokyo symbolizes the latest Japanese technology. These traditional and modern aspects stand close to each other in this city.

We are genuinely looking forward to showing you around Tokyo and we believe that you will enjoy experiencing the new, improved Tokyo.