DILI, 14 August 2025 - The Timor-Leste - Australia Economic and Business Conference 2025 (TLAUCON2025), co-hosted and organised by the Australian Embassy in Timor-Leste in partnership with the Office of the Vice Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, concluded last week with both countries reaffirming their commitment to advancing economic and business cooperation for mutual benefit.
The two-day event opened with high-level remarks from both nations, setting a tone of optimism and partnership. In his address, President of Timor-Leste, H.E. José Ramos-Horta invited Australian investors to explore the country’s untapped opportunities:
“To the Australian business leaders and investors present today: Timor-Leste is open for business. We offer a young, motivated workforce, a growing regional outlook, and the opportunity to be part of our nation’s transformation story. I invite you to explore the many opportunities our country presents and to partner with us in shaping a resilient and prosperous future.”
At the conference, Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister, H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão welcomed participants from both Australia and Timor-Leste, encouraging them to use the two days to discuss opportunities and challenges, to learn, and to make progress. He urged attendees to view the event as the beginning of ongoing collaboration:
“Please take the opportunity over these two days to discuss. We do not finish here, this will open the door for you to continue to connect.”
Representing the Australian Government, The Hon Dr. Anne Aly MP, Minister for International Development, Minister for Small Business and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, expressed her gratitude to the Australian businesses participating in the conference:
“I want to take a moment to thank all the Australian businesses who have come to Timor-Leste for this conference, especially those taking a leap of faith — venturing down a less trodden path and taking a chance on business here. While it is about business, it is also about people, relationships, and the mutual benefit for both Australia and Timor-Leste.”
This spirit of collaboration was further reinforced by a key milestone: the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Timor-Leste Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI-TL) and the East Kimberley Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The agreement signals the desire of both organisations to cooperate two-way business partnerships and sustainable economic growth.
CCI-TL President Jorge Serrano de Araújo commented: “By working together, we aim to unlock economic potential, build mutually beneficial connections between our communities, and ultimately support the growth and diversification of Timor-Leste’s private sector.”
Over two days, TLAUCON2025 gathered business leaders, experts, and decision-makers from agriculture, tourism, manufacturing and processing, and minerals and resources to share ideas and experiences.
Cláudia Ximenes, a panelist at this year’s conferences, shared: “Being a panelist not only raised the visibility of my business but also provided valuable opportunities to connect with other businesses. This platform has also enabled me to communicate challenges directly to decision-makers to improve the business environment.”
The conference also featured a trade fair showcasing more than 50 businesses and organisations from Timor-Leste and Australia, including local products and services. Among the exhibitors was Bounty Timor Tour, representing the tourism sector. Managing Director Platao Lebre said: “It was a great opportunity to promote our tour services and connect with other businesses to explore collaboration. I hope this conference continues regularly to help promote our services.”
The conference was formally closed by the Vice Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, and Minister for Tourism and Environment, H.E. Francisco Kalbuadi Lay. He expressed his appreciation for all participants, especially those who had travelled long distances to attend “on behalf of the IX Constitutional Government of Timor-Leste as Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, I extend my sincere thanks and truly appreciate your presence today.”
The Minister also acknowledged the efforts of the organising committee, including members from his government and the Australian Embassy, for their dedication in making the conference a success. He encouraged continued cooperation between the two countries, saying: “my good friends, let’s walk together between Timor-Leste and Australia”
With more than 400 participants from Timor-Leste and Australia, TLAUCON2025 concluded as a strong affirmation of the shared vision to build deeper economic ties founded on mutual respect, innovation, and sustainable development.
For further information about the conference, please visit the conference website: https://www.tlaucon2025.com/ or contact [email protected] or Mobile +670 7726 6222 & Mobile: +670 7792 2142.