IRC DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY TO RESHAPE TAX ADMINISTRATION
CAPTION: Acting Commissioner General Sam Loi speaking during the launch today.
BY RAYLEEN WANJIMAN
THE Internal Revenue Commission has outlined key reforms under its newly launched Digital Transformation Strategy today aimed at reshaping tax administration by 2028.
Acting Commissioner General Sam Loi speaking during the launch said digital transformation is one of several strategic pillars guiding the Commission’s reform agenda, with the goal of making collaboration easier and improving interaction between taxpayers and the IRC through digital platforms.
He said before developing the strategy, the organisation conducted a Digital Transformation Maturity Assessment to determine its current standing. The assessment placed the IRC at what is described as the emerging stage, with a target to reach established and leading status by 2028.
Commissioner Loi said one of the main outcomes is improving taxpayer experience. Services such as registering for TIN, filing tax returns and making tax payments will increasingly be done online removing the need for taxpayers to physically visit IRC offices.
Phase Two of the Core Tax System will also automate services such as refunds, tax clearance certificates and Certificates of Compliance. He said automation will reduce delays, limit human intervention and minimise opportunities for corruption by creating clearer and more transparent processes.
He noted that for provinces with limited internet access, digital kiosks will be introduced to allow taxpayers to access services with support from regional offices.
Loy added that the strategy will digitise paper based workflows and eventually integrate IRC systems with major business platforms, allowing tax processes to become part of normal business operations.
Loi also stressed that the reforms are designed to create a modern, efficient and technology-driven tax administration that delivers faster, fairer and more convenient services to taxpayers across Papua New Guinea.
