Project Period Tax Reform (PTR) is a voluntary, youth-led initiative dedicated to improving the well-being of young girls and women in the Solomon Islands.
Poor menstrual hygiene has long been a critical issue, impacting not only female health but also school attendance and academic performance.
This initiative is led by five young Solomon Islanders from diverse professional backgrounds, united by a common goal: to create positive change.
The five are Mary Elizabeth Ramosaea, Hika Joseph Gone, Catherine Chan, Joel Fangalasuu and Gladys Bartlett.
The team believes that by recognising our collective responsibility, we can all contribute to making a difference.
They are committed to raising awareness about the sensitivities surrounding menstrual hygiene and working with the government to reduce period poverty in the country.
The first phase of Project PTR focuses on increasing accessibility and affordability of period products by advocating for the removal of import taxes on these essential items.
Already, the team has engaged with various stakeholders and visited schools to rally support from students, ranging from Grade 5 to Senior Secondary.
They have also collaborated with students and staff from the Solomon Islands National University.
The overwhelming support received so far has been deeply encouraging, and the team extends its gratitude to everyone who has endorsed the initiative.
Now, they are calling on the wider community to join this movement. Project PTR is a collective effort that requires national support.
If you want to be part of this push for change, you can contribute by adding your voice. Please take a few minutes to complete this endorsement form: https://forms.gle/BKFwL6ApVXAMxuJV6
All endorsements will remain strictly confidential and will be used as evidence to support a formal submission to the relevant government ministry. With the backing of our leaders, this initiative has the potential to create lasting, positive change for young girls and women in the Solomon Islands.
The reality that, in 2025, women in the Pacific are still paying tax on menstrual hygiene products is unreasonable. This amendment is long overdue, and we believe it will spark a broader conversation across our neighbouring Pacific Island countries. This is not just about tax—it is about respect, dignity, and the role of women in society. It is a small policy change, but one with profound symbolic importance.
Discussions with the government have been promising, and if the Solomon Islands removes this tax, we will be the first Pacific Island nation to do so—a milestone for gender equality in the region.
- PTR Press
