EU, ILO and TradeInvest Timor-Leste Join Forces Supporting Private Sector Development through
Export Trade and Business Training for Agroforestry Products

Dili, Timor-Leste – The European Union (EU), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and TradeInvest
Timor-Leste have joined forces to support the growth and development of the private sector in Timor-Leste.
This collaboration is part of the Agroforestry Skills for Employment and Resilience Project, a key initiative
funded by the EU aimed at enhancing productivity, business capabilities, and export trade within the
country’s agroforestry sector.
The two-day intensive training program focus on equipping private sector businesses with the necessary
skills to successfully enter and compete in the international market. With a specific emphasis on
agroforestry products, the training covers a range of critical topics, including identifying and accessing
export markets, meeting international quality standards and certifications required to EU market, and
navigating the complexities of export procedures.
The export market for agroforestry products is a vital component of Timor-Leste's economic strategy,
offering local businesses the opportunity to expand beyond domestic borders and tap into the global
exchange of goods and services. Engaging in export trade not only fosters economic growth and
diversification but also strengthens the country’s position in the global marketplace, providing businesses
with a competitive edge.
Despite these opportunities, many businesses in Timor-Leste face significant challenges when it comes to
exporting their goods and services. These challenges include difficulties in identifying viable export markets,
complying with rigorous international quality standards, and a lack of knowledge about export procedures
and requirements. The training initiative directly addresses these issues, offering practical solutions and
hands-on exercises to help participants overcome these barriers.
Eng. Arcanjo da Silva, Executive Director at TradeInvest Timor-Leste, highlighted the importance of this
training, stating, "Timor-Leste's agroforestry sector holds great potential for export, but our enterprises need
the right capabilities and knowledge to navigate the complexities of international trade. This training is a
crucial step in empowering our private sector to compete on the global stage."
Richard Hanson, Programme Manager of the Agroforestry Skills for Employment and Resilience Project,
echoed this sentiment, saying, "The ILO, through the EU Agroforestry Skills Project, is committed to
supporting private sector development in Timor-Leste along agroforestry value chains."
Susana Martins, Team Leader for the EU Delegation in Timor-Leste, added, "The European Union is proud
to support initiatives that drive sustainable economic development in Timor-Leste. By investing in the skills
and knowledge of local enterprises we are helping to create a more prosperous, resilient and sustainable
economy."
This joint effort underlines the commitment of the EU, ILO, and TradeInvest Timor-Leste to fostering
sustainable economic growth and ensuring that Timor-Leste’s agroforestry products reach their full potential
on the international market.

Background Information

The Agroforestry Skills for Employment and Resilience project in Timor-Leste is funded by the European
Union (EU). The four year project started in September 2023. With an overall budget of 5.9 million Euros,
the Project aims to promote green and sustainable economic diversification and resilience in Timor-Leste
through private sector development, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) for youth
integration in the labour market and to increase quality employment and entrepreneurship opportunities,
particularly for young women and girls.

For more information, please contact:

• Susana Martins, Communication Coordinator, EU Delegation to Timor-Leste,
Susana.martins@eeas.europa.eu
• Paul Pinto, Communication & Information Officer for ILO's Agroforestry Project, pintop@ilo.org
• Bernardete M. A. Dos Santos, Communication Manager, TradeInvest Timor-Leste,
bernadete@tradeinvest.tl