What are the latest news in Timor-Leste?
Economy and Fiscal Reforms
- IMF Article IV Consultation: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded its 2026 consultation mission to Dili, projecting Timor-Leste’s economic growth to remain resilient at around 4.0%. The IMF emphasized the need for prudent management of the Petroleum Fund, economic diversification, and structural tax reforms (including preparations for a Value Added Tax) to ensure long-term sustainability. -International Monetary Fund——–
- Petroleum Fund Levels: Timor-Leste’s sovereign Petroleum Fund grew to approximately US$18.43 billion in the second quarter of 2026.- Tatoli———
- Presidential Visit to Indonesia: President José Ramos-Horta met with Indonesian leadership in Jakarta, accompanied by Nobel and Turing laureates, focusing on scientific cooperation, regional research initiatives, and bilateral trade. -YouTube——–
- Maritime Border Demarcation: Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão reiterated the country’s commitment to securing and protecting its maritime boundaries and marine resources, linking maritime delimitation directly to national sovereignty.- AMAN -Alliance of Mediterranean News Agencies———
- ASEAN Integration: Timor-Leste continues to advance its institutional and regulatory alignment to finalize its full integration into ASEAN, including expanding trade and investment ties across member states.
- Submarine Fiber-Optic Cable: Commercial operations commenced on the South Subsea Cable (connecting to Australia), significantly improving national internet bandwidth and digital connectivity. -Tatoli——–
- Convention & Tourism Projects: Work is progressing on major infrastructure in Dili, including the new International Convention Centre on the waterfront and expanded international flight routes to Darwin and regional hubs.- Timor-Leste Tourism———