TOKYO, 31 October 2026 — Marking a significant milestone in bilateral economic diplomacy, the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste in Japan participated for the first time in the Overseas Business and Investment Seminar hosted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The two-day hybrid seminar, held on October 30 and 31, brought together delegates from 16 nations—11 from Asia and 5 from Africa. The forum provided a high-level platform for Timor-Leste to showcase its emerging market potential and offer strategic insights to Japanese investors and global industry leaders.
Strengthening Japan-Timor-Leste Economic Ties
Counsellor Celio da Silva attended the seminar on behalf of the Embassy, fostering direct engagement with the Japanese private sector. The technical presentation was delivered by Mr. Roberto da Costa Cabral Lai, Director of External Relations and Marketing at TradeInvest Timor-Leste.
Director Roberto emphasized the successful and growing footprint of Japanese investments in the nation, citing key partnerships such as:
-
Energy & Infrastructure: Strategic initiatives involving Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Company, INPEX Corporation, and the Itochu-EDR Renewable Energy Project.
-
Agriculture & Social Trade: The export of premium organic coffee from Atsabe and Letefoho, alongside the impactful work of the PARCIC NGO.
Strategic Investment Zoning and Fiscal Incentives
To encourage decentralized economic growth, the Government of Timor-Leste has established a tiered system of regional investment zones. Each zone offers specific tax holiday periods designed to maximize investor returns:
| Investment Zone | Geographic Coverage | Tax Holiday Duration |
| Zone A | Dili Municipality | Up to 5 Years |
| Zone B | Municipalities/Urban areas outside Dili | Up to 8 Years |
| Zone C | Oecusse Enclave & Atauro Island | Maximum Incentives |
The presentation also highlighted the Oecusse Special Economic Zone (ZEEMS), currently operating under a Free Trade Scheme, and flagship infrastructure hubs such as the Tibar Bay Industrial Zone, the Dili Industrial Zone, and planned development projects in Manatuto.
Competitive Advantages for Global Investors
TradeInvest detailed a comprehensive suite of benefits for Japanese firms, emphasizing Timor-Leste’s commitment to a transparent and investor-friendly environment:
-
Operational Freedom: 100% foreign equity ownership allowed with unrestricted profit repatriation.
-
Fiscal Exemptions: Up to 100% exemption from income tax, service tax, and import duties on capital goods and equipment.
-
Administrative Efficiency: Streamlined business registration via SERVE (One-Stop Shop) and guaranteed visas for skilled foreign personnel.
-
Land Security: Long-term leases on government property available for up to 50 years.
The Embassy of Timor-Leste in Japan remains dedicated to serving as a primary bridge for Japanese enterprises to explore and capitalize on the wealth of sustainable opportunities within the nation.\
#TimorLesteInJapan #InvestmentTimorLeste #JICASeminar #TradeInvestTL #EconomicDiplomacy
