The company views its presence as a chance to showcase its solutions, share insights on real-time transaction monitoring, and support the ongoing efforts of regional authorities to improve transparency, efficiency, and trust in taxation. 

A Panel of Distinct Perspectives 

From our perspective, one of the most closely followed sessions focused on the modernization of goods and services tax (GST) and value-added tax (VAT) compliance through real-time transaction monitoring. The panel, moderated by Goran Todorov, Chief Executive Officer of Data Tech International (DTI), drew significant attention from delegates who see tax modernization as a cornerstone of economic stability in the region. 

The contributions of four senior Pacific tax administrators, from countries that have already implemented DTI’s TaxCore® or are currently in the process of doing so, captured the close attention of the other delegates throughout the discussion. Tax system digitization emerged as a central element in strengthening budget stability, with the depth of the discussion highlighting both the technical and strategic dimensions of digital tax administration. The exchange underlines how real-time VAT monitoring systems enhance transaction visibility, close compliance gaps, and support informed policy decisions across the Pacific. 

Ms. Kelerayani Dawai, Compliance Director at the Fiji Revenue & Customs Service (FRCS), reflected on Fiji’s early adoption of digital tax systems, highlighting lessons from implementation. Mrs. Fonoti Taefu, Chief Executive Officer of Samoa’s Ministry of Customs and Revenue (MRC), spoke candidly about the determination needed to keep tax reform on track during the pandemic. Mr. Sam Loi, Commissioner for Taxation at Papua New Guinea’s Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), detailed his country’s ambitious national rollout of real-time monitoring, while Mr. George Brechtefeld, Acting Manager for Design and Monitoring at Vanuatu’s Department of Customs & Inland Revenue (CIR), explained how a targeted solution will close long-standing compliance gaps. 

Each intervention highlighted the diversity of national experiences while underscoring a shared understanding that traditional reporting models no longer meet the needs of governments responsible for financing development in an uncertain global environment. 

PITAA 2025 Meeting: Data Tech International’s Role 

For DTI, the discussion in Tonga emphasized the growing demand for systems that bring clarity and trust to tax collection. The company’s flagship solution, TaxCore®, has already been deployed in multiple jurisdictions worldwide, and its presence in the Pacific is steadily expanding. 

Speaking after the panel, Mr. Todorov remarked that Pacific tax administrations are at a decisive moment. “The momentum for real-time monitoring is now undeniable,” he said. “Authorities are no longer asking if they should move in this direction, but rather how quickly and effectively they can do it.” 

DTI views the Pacific as a region facing distinctive challenges, including dispersed populations, limited connectivity, and substantial informal economies, yet also as a region where TaxCore® is already delivering measurable benefits. Through the creation of systems that allow tax authorities to record and validate transactions as they happen, governments can close revenue gaps, reduce compliance costs, and strengthen public confidence in the fairness of taxation. 

Why Real-Time Monitoring Matters? 

No one can argue, the move towards real-time transaction monitoring is a technical upgrade. Also, it represents a shift in how tax administrations approach compliance. Traditional models, built on delayed reporting and post-facto audits, often leave revenue authorities one step behind taxpayers. By contrast, real-time reporting provides immediate visibility, making it far harder for tax evasion to go undetected. 

For Pacific economies, many of which depend heavily on consumption taxes, this shift is especially relevant. Governments need predictable revenue streams to finance infrastructure, health care, education, and climate adaptation. When tax systems underperform, the burden often falls disproportionately on external aid or borrowing. Real-time tax monitoring helps reduce that vulnerability by creating stronger domestic revenue bases. 

The Broader Context of PITAA 2025 

PITAA has long served as a forum for member jurisdictions to exchange expertise and coordinate their efforts. This year’s theme, “Pacific Synergy: Weaving a Sustainable Future through Innovative Laws, Efficiency and Strategic Revenue Mobilization,” reflected the urgency of finding collective solutions. 

Tonga’s hosting of the event carried symbolic weight. The country has weathered both the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha‘apai eruption, experiences that underlined the fragility of small island economies. In Nuku‘alofa, participants repeatedly circled back to the idea that the region needs cooperation paired with modern tools.

From DTI’s vantage point, the Pacific is showing that practical innovation does not require massive budgets or decades of planning. Instead, well-designed digital systems drive progress by adapting to national circumstances while still adhering to international standards.

PITAA 2025 Meeting: TaxCore® Significance 

TaxCore® is central to this vision. By giving tax authorities, the ability to monitor receipts in real time, the platform reduces opportunities for under-reporting, provides taxpayers with greater certainty, and generates reliable data for policy planning. As Mr. Todorov stressed, “Technology must serve both the administration and the taxpayer. Transparency is not a one-way street; it works only when all stakeholders see value in the process.” 

DTI also recognizes that technology alone is not sufficient. Legal reform, institutional training, and communication with the business community are equally critical. The company, therefore, positions itself not only as a supplier of software but as a partner working alongside governments to meet long-term revenue objectives. 

In conclusion, Pacific tax administrators in Nuku‘alofa this week demonstrated their determination not to remain on the sidelines of global tax modernization. On the contrary, they are actively advancing, country by country, with solutions tailored to their specific circumstances. DTI’s TaxCore® is well-positioned to continue supporting this ongoing journey. 

The post PITAA 2025 Meeting: Push Towards Real-Time Monitoring  appeared first on Dti.

As digitalization continues to drive change in economies worldwide, PITAA’s initiatives offer a clear path for Pacific tax administrations to stay relevant, innovative, and effective. By focusing on revenue mobilization, capacity development, and technological advancements, the organization provides a forward-looking approach to cooperation across the region. These key priorities are essential for equipping Pacific tax administrations to move with ease through today’s economic realities.

Once more, Data Tech International has had the honor to assist at this yearly event, this year held in Vanuatu. This yearly heads meeting is crucial for all the countries in the Pacific region willing to transform and enhance their economic systems. In this regard, DTI’s CEO, Mr. Goran Todorov, personally joined this yearly event and exchanged ideas and stories of success in the two countries in the region where DTI’s flagship product, TaxCore®, has a firm presence: Fiji and Samoa.  

TaxCore’s know-how offers countries in the region a clear path towards revenue increase by using the latest tendencies in digitalization, and data analytics with powerfully tailored reporting tools capable of handling compliance, modernizing tax systems, adapting to the local conditions, and, at the same time, by adding value to the tax administrations.

Fiscal Innovations: Modernizing Revenue Collection

As economies become increasingly interconnected, the need for innovative approaches to revenue collection has never been more critical. The growing complexity of tax compliance requires tax administrations not only to manage existing systems but also anticipate emerging risks and challenges.

PITAA’s emphasis on modernizing revenue collection highlights the importance of using data analytics, automation, and strategic risk management to address these challenges. By utilizing advanced technologies, tax authorities can more effectively identify tax evasion, predict areas of non-compliance, and develop tailored strategies to improve revenue generation. This is particularly vital for Pacific nations, where resources may be limited, and optimizing tax collection is essential to supporting public services and infrastructure development and maximizing tax collection is crucial for.

But modernization isn’t just about upgrading technology; it also involves taking care of transparency and accountability in an ethical manner. Effective risk management goes beyond identifying potential issues—it requires building trust with the public and engaging taxpayers to encourage voluntary compliance. As countries in the Pacific region like Fiji and Samoa, explore these fiscal frontiers, combining innovation with integrity will be key to achieving sustainable progress across the region.

Data Tech International fully understands these priorities. With a long history of supporting tax authorities across the Pacific, its success stories in Fiji and Samoa showcase how leveraging the latest technology can lead to tangible modernization in tax administration. By tracking non-compliance and utilizing advanced tools, these efforts are helping generate sustainable revenue streams, setting an example for the entire region.

Enhancing Digital Transformation: The Role of Technology in Taxation

Digital technology is playing an increasingly central role in transforming tax systems, and PITAA’s focus on digitalization—described as riding the “Digital Waves”—marks a significant shift in how countries manage taxation across the Pacific. From automation to artificial intelligence, these tools are leading to faster, more accurate, and more accessible tax systems that benefit both tax administrations and citizens.From automation to artificial intelligence, these tools are leading to faster, more accurate, and more accessible tax systems that benefit both tax administrations and citizens.

One of the most striking benefits of this digital transformation is the efficiency it brings. Automated processes reduce the administrative burden for both governments and taxpayers, automation now allows completing tasks in a manner of minutes when those tasks once took weeks. This frees up valuable resources for tax administrations to focus on more pressing matters, such as detecting fraud and ensuring compliance. Moreover, digital systems promote transparency by making data more accessible and traceable, reducing the opportunities for corruption or mismanagement.

The challenge: cybersecurity and the ethical use of AI

However, the rapid adoption of digital tools brings its own set of challenges, particularly in terms of cybersecurity and the ethical use of AI. As tax administrations become increasingly reliant on these technologies, it becomes crucial to protect digital tax systems from cyber threats. PITAA’s recognition of these risks highlights its dedication to building secure, resilient infrastructures that preserve the integrity of Pacific economies. Digital transformation must be paired with measures that address these risks and ensure that no country is left behind as the region advances.The digital transformation must go hand in hand with measures that address these risks and ensure that no country is left behind as the region moves forward. 

TaxCore®, with its broad range of capabilities, adds value to tax administration by offering a wide array of automation techniques that dramatically reduce the time tax authorities’ staff spend analyzing data. It also equips tax inspectors and other essential personnel with the data that truly matters when carrying out their daily tasks. Additionally, TaxCore® always protects sensitive data, keeping it safe from cyber threats, and having it remain securely on the tax authorities’ premises, well-guarded against any major incidents. Data Tech International (DTI) takes cybersecurity very seriously, addressing potential cyber-attacks that could threaten critical infrastructure.

Developing Expertise: strengthening the Pacific Workforce

A highly skilled workforce is the backbone of any successful tax system. Understanding this, PITAA has made capacity building a key pillar of its modernization efforts. As the complexity of taxation grows, a workforce equipped with the right skills and knowledge is essential to keeping pace with global trends and technological advancements.

To do so, tax authorities should not only focus on technical training but also foster a culture of innovation, leadership, and continuous improvement. This holistic model ensures that staff are well-prepared to not only operate modern technologies but also to engage in strategic thinking and problem-solving. As automation takes over routine tasks, the value of human expertise in decision-making, ethics, and long-term planning will only increase.

Collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the Pacific are equally important. While the region’s countries are diverse, they face many similar challenges in modernizing their tax systems. By sharing best practices and working together, tax administrators can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of their systems. PITAA’s annual meetings provide a critical platform for this cooperation, enabling tax authorities to learn from one another and collectively strengthen tax administration across the Pacific.

Data Tech International (DTI) also contributes significantly to this vital aspect. Its proven expertise in capacity-building, demonstrated through successful implementations in Fiji and Samoa, showcases its strong commitment to adapting to local conditions. DTI focuses on maximizing the effectiveness of training for tax administration staff, modernizing existing processes, enabling new ones, and increasing overall efficiency in order to allocate limited resources effectively in a fast-changing environment.

Actions to Achieve the Vision

To turn PITAA’s vision of a modernized, efficient tax system into reality, several steps must be taken. The path to achieving these goals requires a balanced approach that integrates innovation, collaboration, and a long-term focus on sustainability.

First, investing in technology that truly delivers robust infrastructure remains a top priority. Without the right tools, even the most skilled workforce will be unable to fully implement modern tax systems. Building and maintaining digital platforms, secure databases, and automation tools is essential to laying the foundation for long-term success.

In parallel, maintain the current position that continuous learning and development are essential. While technology plays a key role in modern tax administration, the people who manage these systems are the true drivers of progress. Regular training, opportunities for professional growth, and engagement with new methodologies are crucial to ensuring that digital transformation efforts are both effective and sustainable.Regular training, opportunities for professional growth, and engagement with new methodologies are crucial for ensuring that digital transformation efforts are both effective and sustainable. 

Data Tech International cooperation commitment

In this respect, cooperation between Pacific nations is indispensable. While each country faces unique circumstances, the overarching themes of digitalization, risk management, and capacity development are shared challenges. By pooling resources, expertise, and insights, Pacific nations can create a collective force for regional progress and drive meaningful change in tax administration.

At Data Tech International, we believe that strong, ongoing cooperation is key to ensuring long-term regional progress. This is essential to achieving digital transformation. That’s why TaxCore® represents the most reliable solution for tax authorities—facilitating capacity development, securing revenue collection, and protecting sensitive data from cyber threats, while ensuring that the latest trends and technologies are continuously adopted, updated, and modernized.By pooling resources, expertise, and insights, Pacific nations can create a collective force for regional progress and drive meaningful change in tax administration.

The post PITAA Annual Heads Meeting 2024: TaxCore Response appeared first on Dti.

During the opening lines, Ms. Kelerayani Dawai, Chair of the Pacific Island Tax Administrators Association (PITAA) Executive Committee and proxy to the Chief Executive Officer of Fiji Revenue and Customs Services, stressed out the belief that “the Pacific region, with its unique characteristics, will play an increasingly significant role on the global stage, our responsibilities are substantial, but so too are our abilities”, she also added that “combining this with improved cooperation among tax authorities, policymakers, development partners, businesses, and others will enable pooling of expertise, resources, and perspectives leading to the development of innovative strategies that promote sustainable taxation practices, thus contributing to social and economic goals nationally and regionally”.

Topics for the meeting

The PITAA Annual Heads Meeting managed to gather 44 delegates from 13 PITAA member countries, as well as 11 partner organizations. The theme the organization selected for this year was “Unleashing Innovation and Collaboration for a Sustainable Future”, this theme included the following subthemes:

• Tax Regulatory Reforms for a Sustainable Future
• Leveraging Technology and Data for Efficient Tax Administration
• Combatting Illicit Financial Flows and Mobilizing Revenue through Collaboration
• Developing a Sustainable Tax Administration

The selected theme perfectly aligns with PITAA’s mission to encourage taxation institutions to design and adopt strategies to modernize and enhance their efficiency.

In this respect, Data Tech International, who had the honor of being invited to the the event as a partner organization, led by Ivan Pavlovic, our Chief Technology Officer (CTO). He also contributed to this international meeting by taking part in round-table conversations about the best way to suppress illicit tax activities, sharing our expertise about assisting tax administrations in providing the tax administration with powerful monitoring tools, capable of preventing and helping combat damaging fraud activities and proposing tax regulatory reforms to unleash TaxCore’s full potential.

On this subject, Data Tech International, with its presence in countries in the Pacific region such as Fiji and Samoa, actively collaborates and plays a key role in supporting and enabling a sustainable and steady growth in tax revenue for both jurisdictions, together with the implementation of a system that is capable to successfully fight against tax evasion and the proliferation of gray economy practices.

The post DTI participated in the 20th PITAA Annual Heads Meeting appeared first on Dti.

The conference, held in Fiji Islands, and attended by delegates from 14 PITAA member countries, regional and international partners, including Data Tech International (DTI).

The Fijian Ministry of Economy’s representative, Ms. Momina Beg, delivered the keynote address, who highlighted the benefits of FRCS technological investment in the taxation systems.

Panel discussions, featuring tax administration representatives, related to emerging issues of the post-covid era and hardships in getting on-site support from vendors and providers of digital services. This is indeed one of the major issues because most information system providers come from abroad and the Islands suffer through a difficult isolation period. During the discussion, in the 19th annual PITAA conference, the heads of tax administrations agreed that digital service providers should focus on knowledge transfer and empower their clients to be less dependent on overseas support.

Despite the unfavorable climate for business cooperation, DTI has managed to provide systematic support to FRCS (Fiji) and MCR (Samoa) through efficient remote communication. This constant dedication to the client’s needs has helped keep VMS and TIMS up and running throughout this prolonged period of isolation and uncertainty.

The post 19th PITAA Annual Conference appeared first on Dti.

International Convention Center
Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands

PITAA consists of sixteen Pacific Islands countries. These are Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa, Kingdom of Tonga, Solomon Islands, Kiribati, The Cook Islands, Federated State of Micronesia, Palau, Nauru, Niue, Tokelau, Republic of the Marshal Islands, Timor-Leste, and Tuvalu.

In 2019, the conference was held in the Marshal Islands, and Data Tech International (DTI) was invited to participate. DTI presented its ultimate electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) platform, TaxCore, and many benefits it has brought to Fiji Island where it is implemented as VAT Monitoring System (VMS).

With TaxCore, every fiscal receipt handed out to a customer is instantly verifiable as it goes through the system and is forwarded directly to a local tax authority. This ensures a real-time monitoring system where any discrepancies can be easily caught.

DTI has shown how TaxCore brings benefits for everyone, not exclusively to the tax authority – meaning that taxpayers and customers also have a lot to look forward to.

Tax Authority Gets:

• Significant Increase of Tax Collection
• Decreased Activity of Grey Economy
• Suppression of Tax Evasion

Taxpayers Get:

• Protection for honest taxpayers (from unfair competition)
• Minimized cost of compliance
• Registration of both sales and purchases (B2B transactions)

The Public Gets:

• Raise of consumer awareness
• Clear information on the tax amount that goes to the government
• Digital electronic invoices
• Participation in the CCA (Customer Compliance Award Program)

TaxCore is a safe system based on the PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) which gives full control to the tax authority. Although the system is based online, so it ensures real-time data transactions, some countries are facing difficulties with the internet infrastructure. Therefore, DTI ensured that TaxCore can work offline as well using secure element in the form of a smart cards that save data until the internet connection is re-established. This has proven most valuable when disaster happened right after launch in Fiji (April 2018) when cyclone Josie had devastated western parts of the island. All the sales records before the affected shops were closed due to the hurricane were preserved and reported to Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS).

The List of Participants

The PITAA conference of 2019 saw many important names attending. Besides the PITAA members participating were also distinguished observers from International Monetary Fund (IMF), Australian High Commission, New Zealand Inland Revenue Department, and many more.

It was a true honor to be invited to a conference which so many important names attended. Which is why DTI made sure to provide the latest information on technology in taxation and VAT monitoring and how it need to be utilized. Moreover, we made sure to lead with an example and support all our claims with situations and hardships we encountered on the way and have solved successfully.

The conference was a great opportunity for DTI to shed some light on why it is important for outdated tax collection systems are brought into the 21^st century. A lot of data says that countries which dared embark on this journey have seen their efforts pay off significantly – and the goal of DTI is to help through this transition.

The post PITAA Conference DTI: Attending the 16th annual Conference appeared first on Dti.