IBFD contributes to global dialogue on tax administration at BRITACOM Munich 2026

Hosted jointly by the Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Mechanism (BRITACOM) and the Federation of German Industries (BDI), the programme brought together tax administrations, business representatives, academics and international organisations to exchange practical insights on the future of tax administration and cross-border cooperation.

Representing IBFD, Victor van Kommer participated as a speaker and contributor to discussions on building more effective and collaborative tax systems. His participation reflects our longstanding commitment to advancing evidence-based tax policy and administration through independent research, international dialogue and practical expertise. This year, Mr. van Kommer was invited to be a member of the BRITACOM advisory board, an honour he was glad to accept.

The programme at a glance

The two-day programme included the BRITACOM Advisory Board Meeting, the launch of new Tax Administration Product Portfolio (TAPP) and Taxpayer Service Product Portfolio (TSPP) products, and a Germany-China Tax Administration Theme Day.

A recurring theme throughout the event was the importance of creating tax systems that encourage voluntary compliance while strengthening relationships between tax administrations and taxpayers. During the TAPP and TSPP product launch, experts from tax administrations, international organisations and the private sector shared practical approaches to topics including efficient tax payment and refunds, tax arrears management, early dispute resolution, taxpayer services and tax data security.

As part of this international panel of experts, IBFD highlighted the value of transparent tax administration, clear guidance and international cooperation in creating tax environments that support both compliance and economic growth. With businesses increasingly operating across multiple jurisdictions, tax certainty and effective dialogue between taxpayers and administrations have become essential components of modern tax governance.

The Germany-China Tax Administration Theme Day and Munich meetings

The Germany-China Tax Administration Theme Day further demonstrated the importance of international cooperation in addressing cross-border tax challenges. Officials from Germany and China, alongside business representatives, discussed tax policy developments, treaty implementation, compliance requirements and practical issues faced by multinational enterprises. The open exchange between tax authorities and businesses underscored the growing need for collaborative solutions that reduce uncertainty and facilitate international investment.

The Munich meetings also provided an opportunity for BRITACOM's Advisory Board to discuss the continued development of its knowledge-sharing initiatives and international cooperation programmes. These discussions reinforce the growing role of multilateral platforms in supporting capacity building and the exchange of best practices among tax administrations worldwide.

For IBFD, participating in forums such as BRITACOM aligns closely with its mission to connect policymakers, tax administrations, businesses and academics through independent expertise. As international tax systems continue to evolve, constructive dialogue and the sharing of practical experience remain essential to building tax administrations that are both efficient and trusted.

We’re pleased to contribute to these important conversations and look forward to continuing to support international tax cooperation through these initiatives.