OPENING CEREMONY OF THE DILI INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXPO 2025 🇹🇱🌎

Dili, August 28, 2025

The IX Constitutional Government, through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) in coordination with the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs (MCAE) and the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, with support from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Timor-Leste (CCI-TL), officially launched for the first time in Timor-Leste the International Trade Expo 2025.

H.E. Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, in his speech, stated that the Dili International Trade Expo 2025 is a way to tell the world that Timor-Leste is now open for business.
“This is a celebration of our people’s creativity and determination. This Expo is also a platform for national and international companies to meet, explore business opportunities, and build new investment networks.” – declared Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão at the Dili Convention Center (CCD).

“Our Strategic Development Plan sets out our long-term vision: to develop our people, build critical infrastructure, and create a diversified and resilient economy. The Government’s Program focuses on job creation, attracting investment, supporting the private sector, and preparing Timor-Leste for ASEAN accession.”

On the occasion, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Nino Pereira, proudly welcomed all participants attending the event:
“Today we are making history. We are opening our doors to the world, not only to show who we are but also to extend our hand and say: be our partners in this journey to promote and strengthen the private sector.” – said Minister Nino Pereira.

“The Dili Trade Expo 2025 has a very clear goal: to connect. To connect our producers to the world. To connect international investment to Timorese potential. And above all, to connect our ancestral heritage to future innovation. Doing this and marking this moment is crucial!”

The event welcomes 93 international guests to help strengthen connectivity.

The Dili International Trade Expo 2025 will run for 5 days with the following programs:

• 🌍 International exhibitors and local businesses

• 🎤 Talk shows and cultural performances

• 🤝 Business Matchmaking and signing of Memoranda of Understanding among participants

• 🖼️ Art & Culture showcase, national music, live performances by artists, and innovations from universities and companies

• 💼 Presentations on business and investment opportunities from the Government, district authorities, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as information on access to banking credit