The Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) has raised concerns over the current implementation approach of the Vanuatu Sales and Monitoring System (VSMS), saying many businesses may not yet be ready to comply with the new requirements.
VCCI said while it supports efforts to modernise revenue systems and strengthen compliance, businesses need more engagement, support and preparation before full implementation.
The concerns follow an independent VCCI survey conducted between 28 May and 9 June 2026, involving 143 businesses across Shefa Province.
The survey found that while 72% of businesses were aware of VSMS requirements, only 37% had completed registration.
It also found that 41% of businesses were partially registered, while 50% of businesses did not operate a Point of Sale (POS) system, meaning they would require system upgrades before compliance.
Among businesses that already use POS systems, only 3% were VSMS-accredited.
VCCI said businesses identified several challenges affecting their ability to comply, including difficulty understanding compliance requirements, limited technical knowledge, and the cost of upgrading systems and purchasing equipment.
The Chamber said 71% of respondents reported delays in preparing for compliance.
Following the submission of its findings and recommendations to relevant authorities, including proposals for pilot implementation and transitional arrangements, VCCI said it has not received substantive feedback addressing the concerns raised.
VCCI said limited responsiveness to structured business feedback could affect the success of the implementation process and may result in businesses facing penalties despite challenges beyond their control.
The Chamber said compliance systems can only succeed when businesses have the knowledge, capacity and resources needed to meet requirements within the timeframe provided.
VCCI is calling on relevant authorities to urgently engage with the private sector to ensure the implementation process is practical, inclusive and achievable.
