Tax (both direct and indirect) in Solomon Islands is high in real terms compared with some other more developed countries. Exemptions are theoretically possible depending on the nature and amount of any new investment and the perceived national benefit. Virtually all applications are referred to an exemptions committee comprised of officials from the various revenue authorities. Tax exemptions (income tax, import duty, goods tax) should be applied for before commencing business as it is virtually impossible to obtain exemptions at a later date.