It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to the beautiful shores of Port Vila, Vanuatu for the 21st PITAA Annual Heads Meeting. Vanuatu is honored to host this prestigious gathering once again after previously welcoming PITAA delegates in 2008. On behalf of the Department of Customs & Inland Revenue, the Government, and the people of Vanuatu, I extend our warmest greetings to each and every one of you.

This year’s theme, “Navigating Challenging Seas: Charting the Course of Modern Taxation in the Pacific” resonates deeply as we gather to address the complexities and opportunities that lie ahead for tax administration in our region. PITAA has long served as a beacon of cooperation, promoting best practices and delivering capacity building initiatives to drive effective and efficient revenue administration in our island nations.

This annual gathering holds immense significance as it brings together tax administrators from across the Pacific region, fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and collective efforts to address the challenges and opportunities. The rapid advancements in technology and the evolving global economy demand that we remain vigilant and adaptive in our approach to tax administration. By convening in Port Vila, we have the unique opportunity to learn from one another’s experiences, share innovative solutions, and collectively chart a course towards a more efficient, transparent, and equitable tax systems for our region.

As we embark on this journey together, I encourage you to embrace the spirit of collaboration, and open dialogue. Let us engage in thought-provoking discussions, challenge conventional wisdom, and explore new frontiers in tax administration.

Furthermore, I invite you to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Vanuatu during your stay. Our nation is renowned for its warm hospitality, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant culture and traditions that have withstood the test of time.

Once again, I extend a heartfelt welcome to you all. May our deliberations be fruitful, our exchanges enriching, and our collective efforts pave the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for the Pacific region.

Sincerely,

Mr. Collins Gesa

Acting Director – Vanuatu Department of Customs & Inland Revenue

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Participation at the meeting is strictly by Invitation Only!

Keep checking this page for more information.

About Port Vila

HISTORY

Port Vila the capital city of Vanuatu, has a rich history dating back to the 14th century when the islands were first settled by Melanesian people. The town itself was established in the 19th century as a British-French condominium during a period of colonial rule. The unique dual influence is still evident today in the city’s architecture, cuisine, and cultural fabric. Port Vila gained independence along with the rest of Vanuatu in 1980.

CULTURE

Port Vila has a vibrant population of indigenous Ni-Vanuatu with French, British, and other international influences. The city’s cultural heart is the lively outdoor markets, such as the Port Vila Markets, where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and mementoes. Ni-Vanautu traditions like sand drawing, storytelling, music, and dance are kept alive. The National Museum is an excellent place to learn about Vanuatu’s history and cultures.

CLIMATE

Located in the South Pacific, Port Vila enjoys a tropical maritime climate. Temperatures are warm year-round, averaging 73-87°C. November to April is the wet season with higher humidity and the chance of cyclones and monsoons. Even during the wetter months, days are typically sunny with brief showers. In September, the average temperature ranges from 27 °C (81 °F) during the day to 21 °C (70 °F) at night.

 MEETING VENUE

The meeting will be held at the Warwick Le Lagoon Resort in Port Vila, Vanuatu. Tucked along a  white sand beach in Port Vila, Warwick Le Lagon provides a tropical sanctuary on the shores of Vanuatu’s Mele Bay. This resort immerses guests in an authentic Melanesian village atmosphere with thatched villa accommodations, many featuring direct overwater access and private plunge pools. Lush gardens, a lagoon, and island views create a natural ambience complemented by world-class amenities like gourmet dining, spa, and infinity pools. Warwick Le Lagon has a state-of-the-art convention center with flexible indoor/ outdoor event spaces., providing an ideal island backdrop for productive meetings and memorable events.  

More Info about the resort; Click Here

With the meeting theme “Navigating Challenging Seas: Charting the Course of Modern Taxation in the Pacific”, the meeting agenda brings together presenters and panel discussions on the sub-themes. Below is a summarized version of the agenda. 

The detailed draft agenda can be found here: AGENDA

i) Registration

Registration for the Meeting is now open, and delegates are encouraged to use the link below to register their attendance, please. We kindly request early registration to ensure proper planning and coordination. Click the link below:

 : 2024 PITAA Annual Heads Meeting Registration

ii) Passport & Visa

Delegates intending to attend the meeting must have a valid passport for a minimum of period of six months from the date of entry into Vanuatu.

Vanuatu Visa Entry Requirement

Delegates requiring a visa to enter Vanuatu are strongly encouraged to start the visa process early.

(iii) Travel TO and FROM Port Vila, Vanuatu

Delegates are to make their own travel arrangements to and from Vanuatu and are kindly urged to arrange flight reservations as early as possible for their preferred flights and dates of travel. Upon confirmation of the travel itinerary, we kindly request you to send us your itinerary to teams@pitaa.org upon confirmation.

iv) Security

Port Vila is a very safe place to explore. During your visit, your safety will be of utmost priority.

v) Arrivals

Bauerfield International Airport serves as the main gateway for delegates arriving in Port Vila, Vanuatu. Upon arrival, delegates can expect to go through the following customs and immigration procedures:

• Disembarkation: Delegates will disembark from their flights and proceed to the arrivals terminal.
• Customs-Border: Delegates will need to present their passports and completed arrival cards to the Customs Officer.
• Customs: Delegates may be required to declare any goods they are bringing into the country. Customs Officers may conduct random inspections of luggage.
• Baggage Claim: Delegates can collect their checked luggage from the baggage claim area.

The airport offers the following amenities:

• Telecommunication: There are several telecommunication kioks located in the arrival terminal where delegates can purchase local SIM cards or top up their existing ones.
• Foreign Exchange: Foreign exchange kiosks are available for delegates to exchange their foreign currency into Vanuatu Vatu (VUV), the local currency.

After clearing customs and immigration, delegates can exit the airport and will be greeted by the Liaison Officer for transport to the delegates accommodation venue.

vi) Accommodation

Delegates are responsible for the booking of their own accommodation with their respective accommodation venue.

The recommended accommodation option is Warwick Le Lagon Resort as it is the Meeting Venue. However, we note that delegates may prefer to have alternative options and we have provided these below:

General Information

Currency

Vanuatu’s national currency is called the Vatu. It is possible to exchange your local currency at the foreign exchange kiosk at the arrivals International Terminal at Bauerfield International Airport.

Mobile Network Providers

Digicel and Vodafone are present at the Bauer International Airport arrival terminal and around Port Vila.

Time Zone

The time zone in Port Vila, Vanuatu is GMT+11.

Electrical Outlet and Voltage

Vanuatu uses power outlets and plugs of Type I. All power sockets in Vanuatu provide a standard voltage of 220V with a standard frequency of 50Hz.

Drinking Water

During the meeting, delegates will be provided with bottled water. Delegates are also advised to purchase bottled water outside of the meeting times should more is required.

Insurance

Delegates are strongly advised to arrange travel insurance for attending the meeting.

Disclaimer: The Host Country and PITAA Secretariat disclaims all responsibility for medical, accident and travel insurance, for compensation for death or disability, for loss of or damage to personal property and for any other loss that may be incurred during travel time or the period of attendance. In this context, it is strongly recommended that participants secure prior to departure international travel insurance for the period of attendance.

Contact Information: vanuatu2024@pitaa.org