Fiscal Decentralization and Local Public Finance in Japan

by Nobuki Mochida

Overview

The intergovernmental fiscal issue is highly relevant given the worldwide movement toward more decentralized governance in both industrial and developing countries. Over the course of five decades Japan has developed a robust system of decentralized governance. This book investigates fiscal decentralization and local finance in Japan with a view to understanding how the process of decentralization has unfolded there and what the rest of the world can learn.

The author sheds light on the drives leading up to a need for decentralization reform over the last decade and evaluates so-called ‘Trinity Reform’ implemented by the Koizumi administration during 2004-2006. Finally, the book considers the decentralization process in Asian developing countries and discusses what lessons might be drawn from Japanese experiences.

This excellent study of an important subject area will be particularly useful for all those studying intergovernmental fiscal relations, public finance and public sector economics. It will also be of interest to specialist international organizations and policy makers who are involved in intergovernmental issues.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780415437462
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	06/26/2008
Series:	Routledge Frontiers of Political Economy , #107
Pages:	240
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

Nobuki Mochida is a Professor at the Graduate School of Economics at the University of Tokyo, Japan.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1. Historical Back Drop 2. Division of Function 3. Tax Assignment 4. Option for Local VAT 5. Design of Fiscal Transfers 6. Fiscal Equalization Scheme 7. Local Bond System 8. Drive to Decentralize. Conclusion