03/02/2025
How To Calculate Tax In PNG π°π΅π΅π¬β
Calculating tax in Papua New Guinea (PNG) depends on the type of tax (e.g., income tax, corporate tax, GST) and the taxpayerβs status (individual, business, etc.). Below is a guide to understanding and calculating individual income tax and corporate tax in PNG, based on current regulations (as of 2023). Always verify with the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) of PNG for updates.
1. Individual Income Tax
PNG uses a progressive tax system for residents, with different rates for residents and non-residents. Employers typically deduct Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) taxes from salaries.
Resident Tax Rates (2023 Tax Year):
Residents are taxed on worldwide income. The tax brackets are as follows:
| Taxable Income (PGK) | Tax Rate |
| Up to 12,500 | 0% |
| 12,501 β 20,000 | 22% |
| 20,001 β 33,000 | 30% |
| 33,001 β 70,000 | 35% |
| 70,001 β 250,000 | 40% |
| Over 250,000 | 42% |
Additional Levy:
A 2% Training Levy is applied to taxable income (after deductions).
Non-Resident Tax Rates:
Non-residents (working in PNG for β€183 days/year) pay a flat rate of 42% on PNG-sourced income, plus the 2% Training Levy.
Steps to Calculate Individual Tax:
1. Determine taxable income:
Total annual income β allowable deductions (e.g., superannuation, work-related expenses).
2. Apply progressive tax rates to each bracket.
3. Add the 2% Training Levy on the taxable income.
Example Calculation (Resident earning PGK 50,000):
- Taxable Income: PGK 50,000
- Tax Calculation:
- 0% on first 12,500 = 0
- 22% on 20,000 β 12,500 = 7,500 Γ 22% = 1,650
- 30% on 33,000 β 20,000 = 13,000 Γ 30% = 3,900
- 35% on 50,000 β 33,000 = 17,000 Γ 35% = 5,950
- Total Tax: 0 + 1,650 + 3,900 + 5,950 = PGK 11,500
- Training Levy: 2% of 50,000 = PGK 1,000
- Total Payable: 11,500 + 1,000 = PGK 12,500
2. Corporate Tax
Businesses in PNG pay tax on profits. Key rates include:
- Resident Companies: 30% (standard rate).
- Non-Resident Companies: 48% (if income is PNG-sourced).
- Specific Sectors:
- Mining/Petroleum: 45% (subject to project agreements).
- Small-to-Medium Enterprises (SMEs): 25% (for turnover β€ PGK 10 million).
Dividend Withholding Tax:
- 15% for residents.
- 30% for non-residents.
3. Goods and Services Tax (GST)
- Rate: 10% on most goods and services.
- Exemptions: Basic food items, education, healthcare, and financial services.
Key Considerations
1. Tax-Free Threshold: Residents pay no tax on the first PGK 12,500 (increased to K20,000) of income.
2. Deductions: Allowable deductions include superannuation (up to 15% of salary), work-related expenses, and charitable donations.
3. Filing Deadline: Individual tax returns are due by 31 March each year.
Important Resources
- Internal Revenue Commission (IRC)
- Tax Tables: Check the IRCβs latest PAYE tax tables for precise calculations.
Always consult a tax professional or the IRC for complex cases or recent changes. Tax laws may vary for industries like mining, agriculture, or petroleum.
Read more on our website; www.pngsme.org β