Timor-Leste's Future Economic Forums and Ethical Investment Challenges
As Timor-Leste approaches its historic accession as ASEAN’s 11th member in October 2025, the country is actively positioning itself as a promising destination for strategic investment and regional economic collaboration. A key highlight on the horizon is the 5th Timor-Leste Energy, Mining & Business Forum, scheduled for 24-26 November 2025 in Dili. This flagship event, endorsed by the Autoridade Nacional do Petróleo (ANP) and Autoridade Nacional dos Minerais (ANM), will convene over 300 global delegates and more than 50 speakers to explore investment opportunities across petroleum, mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors.
The Forum’s agenda is structured to address critical sectors over three days: the Minerals Investment Forum will spotlight Timor-Leste’s burgeoning mining industry and investment prospects; the Petroleum Investment Forum will focus on upstream and downstream developments, including the Greater Sunrise Gas Field and upcoming licensing rounds; and the Business & Local Content Forum will emphasize national priorities such as skills development, financial inclusion, and regional integration. This event is expected to catalyze deal-making, knowledge exchange, and partnerships that align with Timor-Leste’s economic diversification goals.
However, alongside this optimism lies a growing discourse on the ethics and sustainability of foreign investment in Timor-Leste’s evolving economic landscape. As highlighted by experts such as Dr. Khoo Ying Hooi, the excitement surrounding ASEAN membership and investment inflows must be balanced with critical reflection on governance, transparency, and equitable development. Timor-Leste’s political institutions, while democratic, are still maturing, and there is a risk that unchecked investments could reinforce elite networks or exacerbate social inequalities.
Past experiences, such as controversies over the Tasi Mane petroleum infrastructure project, underscore the importance of accountability, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Ethical investment in Timor-Leste requires aligning commercial objectives with principles of inclusion, sustainability, and respect for local culture and history. This means fostering partnerships that empower local communities, ensure open procurement processes, and build institutional capacity to manage resources effectively.
Moreover, Timor-Leste’s strategic location between major regional powers adds geopolitical complexity to investment decisions, necessitating careful navigation to safeguard national sovereignty while benefiting from international cooperation. The country’s youthful population—over 60% under 25 years old—further demands that investments translate into tangible social benefits such as education, employment, and healthcare.
In conclusion, as Timor-Leste hosts major economic forums and welcomes increased foreign investment, the challenge will be to cultivate an investment climate that is not only profitable but also ethical and sustainable. Success will depend on a shared commitment among government, investors, civil society, and ASEAN partners to build a resilient economy that benefits all Timorese citizens and sets a model for responsible development in the region.