Dili, May 23, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The Prime Minister has called on the Timor-Leste Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI-TL), the main representative of the private sector, to continue strengthening the local economy and thereby contribute to the nation’s development. This appeal was made during an event held at the CNE Hall on Thursday this week.
Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão delivered his remarks at the celebration of CCI-TL’s 15th anniversary, which was held under the theme “Strengthening Partnerships for National Development Sustainability.” He urged Timorese entrepreneurs to help drive development in Timor-Leste.
“CCI-TL has existed for 15 years, and just two days ago we also celebrated the Restoration of Independence Day on the 20th of May. We can see that one of the biggest problems our country faces is the ongoing crisis of unemployment, lack of economic transformation, and other issues. This is saddening. Therefore, I call on all private companies to strengthen themselves and help grow the local economy,” said Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the private sector in supporting the government, highlighting that understanding and addressing these issues together could help create meaningful change for the nation’s future.
“To all the entrepreneurs attending this ceremony, I may not have a long speech to deliver, but I ask only this: Today I’ve read the economic policy and strategy of the IX Constitutional Government. It aims to drive our local economy so it can become a beacon in the eyes of the people,” said the Prime Minister.
He continued, stressing that the private sector’s support is crucial for national development, and reminded that since 2002 and 2003, Timor-Leste has been undergoing two parallel processes, the construction of the state and the establishment of state institutions including the Presidency, Government, and Judiciary. These institutions were not created just to exist structurally, but must serve with responsibility.
“Our State remains fragile because our institutions do not fulfill their obligations properly. They fail to operate with seriousness, honesty, professionalism, and commitment to serve. Therefore, even though we have restored independence on the 20th of May, our state remains fragile, and this requires all of our efforts to bring the nation into the light,” he said.
He underscored that compared to other countries in the world, Timor-Leste is fortunate to have oil resources, and this wealth demands that public servants spend responsibly, because the money belongs to the people, bought with their blood and sweat.
On his part, CCI-TL President Jorge Manuel Serrano explained that the objective of the seminar was to invite the private sector and government entities to jointly reflect on how to strengthen national development in Timor-Leste.
“CCI-TL represents all private sectors operating in Timor-Leste. Through direct visits and listening to them, we know many entrepreneurs are facing challenges, such as reduced revenues of up to 95%, making it difficult to sustainably grow the economic sector,” said CCI-TL President Jorge Manuel Serrano.
He added that CCI-TL, throughout its 15 years under various leaderships, has always faced challenges. However, as entrepreneurs, they must maintain vision and courage to build better businesses for the future.
“Throughout our existence, many challenges have arisen. Some business activities succeed, while others do not. That’s why we are organizing this seminar, so everyone can participate in discussions on what needs to be improved moving forward,” said the CCI-TL President.
He stated that this seminar was not just organized by CCI-TL alone, but also in collaboration with several government entities, including the Authority for Inspection and Supervision of Economic, Sanitary, and Food Activities (AIFAESA), the National Environmental Licensing Authority (ANLA), the National Social Security Institute (INSS), and the National Commercial Bank of Timor-Leste (BNCTL). These institutions are responsible for regulating commercial activities and businesses in the country.
He further explained that during the seminar, each of these government entities presented their respective roles related to commercial activities, emphasizing that businesses must not manipulate prices or sell expired products. If such practices are found, the company may be fined or temporarily closed.
Report : Nelfiano
Photo : Media Officer PM