The Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) has officially launched the Goods and Services Tax Monitoring System (GMS) Project — marking the beginning of one of the most important tech reforms in PNG’s tax history. While the system is not live for taxpayers just yet, the launch of the project means work is now underway to bring this powerful new tool to life. The IRC explained that the GMS is a high-tech system that, once operational, will track GST transactions in real time at the point of sale. "Digital receipts sent instantly to IRC — a major boost for transparency and compliance. The system will help:

• Detect fraud in real time.
• Cut down on false invoicing.
• Make sure all businesses play by the same rules.
• Ensure more GST actually goes to public services.
• Allow for invoice matching in real time to address the issues of delays in GST refunds.

Project implementation has begun, led by IRC in partnership with tech experts VirtualFlex Ltd and Data Tech International (DTI). The technology, known internationally as TaxCore, is already working in countries like Fiji, Samoa and Serbia amongst others," IRC stated. IRC Commissioner General Mr. Sam Koim when speaking about the IRC’s Annual Plan for 2025, said that the GMS will revolutionize GST compliance ensuring greater transparency and efficiency in collections. "To kick things off, IRC staff participated in a four-day internal GMS Awareness Workshop (6th to 9th May 2025) — ensuring the project team is informed, aligned, and ready to deliver this digital transformational system. IRC is embarking on a strategic direction to make GST the number one revenue earner for Government and to offset likely decreases in income tax, that includes salary and wages taxes. Stay tuned as we build toward full rollout — and a fairer, more efficient tax system for all," Commissioner Koim said.