Opening Ceremony of the 45th CATA Annual Heads Meeting and Technical Conference, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – 8 July 2025

The 45th Annual Heads Meeting and Technical Conference of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) officially opened at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Hosted by the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) of Papua New Guinea, the event brings together tax leaders and experts from across the Commonwealth and beyond under the theme “Aligning Global Standards with Local Solutions: Evolving Tax Systems in the Digital Age.”

This year marks a significant milestone for CATA, as it is the first time the Heads Meeting is held as a distinct programme from the Technical Conference. This new format has been met with enthusiasm, with strong participation from tax administration leaders in the Heads Meeting and robust engagement from delegates in the Technical Conference.

The opening ceremony was graced by H.E. Sir Bob Dadae, Governor General of Papua New Guinea who delivered the keynote address, emphasising the importance of international cooperation in modernising tax systems and embracing digital transformation.

Mr Mahmad Noor Oozeer, Chairman of CATA, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the association’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation among member countries. This was followed by opening remarks from Mr Sam Koim, Commissioner General of the IRC, who warmly welcomed delegates and underscored the significance of hosting this prestigious event in Papua New Guinea.

With close to 30 member countries represented, the conference has drawn a diverse and dynamic group of participants, including representatives from international and regional organisations such as the OECD, IBFD, IMF, World Bank, CIAT, PITAA, and WATAF. This broad participation will enrich discussions and foster valuable knowledge exchange on global tax standards, digital innovation and local adaptation.

The success of the event reflects the strong collaboration and shared commitment among CATA’s leadership and partners. Special recognition is due to Mr Sam Koim, Commissioner General of the IRC and his organising Committee; Dr Abu Tariq Jamaluddin, President of CATA; Mr Mahmad Noor Oozeer, Chairman of CATA; Ms Deborah Lock, Vice Chair of CATA; Dr Esther A.P. Koisin, Executive Director and members of the CATA Secretariat, whose collective efforts and coordination have made this event possible.