Bangkok, Thailand, 13 May 2026- Elias de Jesus Fatima, Director-General of Commerce at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI), participated as a speaker in the panel discussion on Trade Agreement Accessions in Asia-Pacific.

During the discussion, Timor-Leste shared its experience as the newest member of Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the World Trade Organization, highlighting how the accession processes support national economic transformation, trade governance reforms, and private sector development.

Timor-Leste also emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen trade facilitation, promote digital trade infrastructure, and develop productive sectors such as agro-processing, light manufacturing, and small and medium enterprises.

The discussion highlighted the importance of capacity building, technical assistance, and regional cooperation to support least developed and small economies in implementing international trade commitments effectively.

Timor-Leste reaffirmed its commitment to becoming an active and constructive partner within ASEAN and the multilateral trading system.