IRC Commissioner hands over PITAA chairperson role

The Chairman of the Pacific Islands Tax Administration Association [PITAA] and PNG Internal Revenue Commissioner, Sam Koim handed over the chair to Vanuatu during the 21st PITAA conference in Port Vila on Monday.

Mr Koim says after serving for a year, the journey has been as rewarding as it has been challenging.

“Collaboration has been our true compass. By sharing experiences whether in modernizing tax laws or improving governance we have learned invaluable lessons from each other.

“This spirit of partnership ensures that we are not just following the examples of advanced tax systems, but creating our own success stories, tailored to our unique Pacific contexts.

“Together, we are building a future where our tax administrations can meet the financial needs of our countries, fostering sustainable development across our region,” Koim said.

The outgoing chairman said collective efforts to adapt, learn, and evolve have made the tax systems more resilient, able to withstand the inevitable challenges that arise and continue to serve communities well into the future.

Mr. Koim reiterated that charting the course of modern taxation in the Pacific couldn’t be more appropriate but captures the trials they face, but also the great opportunities that lie ahead for the tax administrations.

“I’m confident that PITAA will continue to flourish. Yes, we face significant challenges, but the opportunities are equally vast,” Koim added.