The GREAT Coalition today released its Draft Formal Tax Policy Work Programme 2026–2028, inviting taxpayers, businesses and the wider public to have their say on the future direction of Solomon Islands’ tax system.
The draft programme sets out the Government’s proposed tax policy and legislative priorities for the next two years.
The Government says the initiative marks a move towards a more open, transparent and participatory approach to developing tax policy.
“For the first time, taxpayers, businesses, community organisations and other interested groups can review the Government’s proposed tax policy agenda and provide feedback before it is finalised,” a government statement said.
It added the programme identifies the key areas of tax policy and legislation that the Ministry of Finance and Treasury’s Economic Division and the Inland Revenue Division (IRD) expect to work on between 2026 and 2028.
It also sets out a process for prioritising proposals based on their potential impact on government revenue, taxpayers, businesses and the wider economy.
The programme is overseen by the Economic Division/IRD Work Prioritisation and Review Committee, which is responsible for deciding which tax policy initiatives should be progressed and when, based on Government priorities and available resources.
The draft programme focuses on five main areas.
1. Protecting the integrity of the tax system
This includes measures to strengthen the tax system and address tax avoidance and evasion.
2. Modernising and strengthening the tax system
The Government will review and update tax laws in response to changes in technology, business practices, court decisions and other developments.
This will also include work to reform indirect taxes, including consideration of a single tax rate and a broader-based indirect tax system.
The Government says the reforms aim to simplify tax rules and create a more level playing field for businesses.
3. Strengthening domestic and international information sharing
This work will strengthen Solomon Islands’ ability to share and respond to tax information in line with domestic and international obligations.
It will also help the country respond to changes in the domestic and global economy.
4. Social policy
This area will consider tax measures that may affect the wellbeing of Solomon Islanders.
5. Other Government agency priorities
This work will address initiatives from other government agencies that may have tax implications or affect the delivery of Inland Revenue services.
The Government says public consultation will be a key part of the tax policy process.
The consultation will take place in four phases.
Phase One will involve preliminary meetings with stakeholders likely to be directly affected by proposed tax policies, including the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
Phase Two will focus on public awareness and education through platforms including the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation, the IRD website and sessions at Solomon Islands National University.
Phase Three will involve one-on-one consultations with key stakeholder groups, including the Solomon Islands Small Business Enterprise Centre, Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants, Women in Law and the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Phase Four will involve a broader public consultation meeting involving government, non-government and business stakeholders.
The Government says the work programme will be a living document and reviewed regularly to ensure it remains aligned with national priorities.
Any changes will be reflected in the publicly available version, allowing stakeholders to track the Government’s tax policy agenda.
The Government is encouraging everyone with an interest in the tax system to review the draft programme and provide feedback.
