Dili, 02 Mei 2026 (Media Democracia) – The State Secretariat for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), together with the National Labour Council (CNT), held the celebration of World Workers’ Day with the theme “Strengthen Social Dialogue Through Collective Negotiation to Promote Decent Work in the Workplace.”
According to the Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), Rogério Araújo Mendonça, today’s activity is meant to promote our workers in Timor-Leste.
“Every year, the State Secretariat for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), together with the National Labour Council, always celebrates May 1st as World Day for Workers. We know that workers are the heroes of our national economic development. Today’s activity focuses on two points. The first is facilitating a low-cost bazaar for our workers, as well as for communities. This activity is about promoting workers, some of whom currently receive a salary of $115.00 US dollars, while others earn higher wages. This model gives them an opportunity to come, buy, and access a market that is cheaper or more affordable for basic necessities.” said the Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE) at the Old Market (29/04/2026).
The Secretary of State also affirmed that in 2026, the minimum wage will increase from $115.00 US dollars to either $154.00 or $160.00 US dollars.
“In consultation with the Ministry of Finance, especially with the Statistics and Macroeconomics departments, the objective was to analyze whether an increase in the minimum wage would impact inflation in the country. The Statistics and Macroeconomics teams gave a recommendation stating that the minimum wage, which is currently $115.00 US dollars, can be increased to $154.00 US dollars. With this, the State Secretariat for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE) and the National Labour Council (CNT) have already prepared and submitted the proposal to the Ministry of the Coordinator for Social Affairs (MECAS), as well as to the Prime Minister and the President of the Council of Ministers. We hope that next week, when the Prime Minister returns from abroad, the Council of Ministers will schedule a discussion on the minimum wage to gain approval. This would then be implemented in 2026. The recommendation from Statistics is $154.00, so when it’s brought to discussion, we will see if it stays at $154.00 US dollars or increases further to $160.00 US dollars. That will be an alternative for the Council’s decision.” the Secretary of State added.
World Workers’ Day is very important. We must value both national and foreign workers, who are the heroes of economic development in our nation of Timor-Leste.
Report By: Trainees Novita Soares and Baquita
Photo By: Trainee Novita Soares