(KPL) The Tax Department of the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone reported a significant drop in revenue in 2025, alongside new measures to modernize tax administration and improve compliance.

According to its annual performance review, total tax revenue collected in 2025 reached 32,273 million Kip, down by 127,729 million Kip, or 48.98%, compared to the previous year.

The department currently manages 1,849 registered business units in its Tax Management Information System (TaxRIS), of which 551 have ceased operations. Authorities renewed contracts for 1,298 businesses, issued 165 new taxpayer identification numbers, and provided 721 tax obligation certificates during the year.

Officials cited several ongoing challenges, including slower-than-expected implementation of the national agenda on economic and financial recovery, delays in business classification surveys due to budget constraints, and difficulties transitioning enterprises with annual revenues exceeding 400 million Kip into standardized accounting systems. The rate of self-declared tax payments remains at 55% province-wide, while long-standing tax debt linked to public expenditure continues to pose difficulties.

To strengthen revenue collection, the department plans to coordinate with the zone’s management authorities to ensure full payment of annual road fees by vehicle owners within the zone. Businesses will also be encouraged to adopt the TaxRIS system for independent tax filing and payment.

Authorities will intensify monitoring of personal income tax from employee salaries and residency-related fees associated with Dok Ngiew Kham Group to ensure full and regular contributions to the national budget. Tax officials will also conduct on-site data collection for new infrastructure projects and rental businesses to improve accuracy in tax assessment.

The department reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening accountability through detailed work planning and enhanced personnel management to meet future revenue targets in Lao PDR.

KPL