AKP Phnom Penh, October 28, 2025 --

ASEAN’s newest member, Timor-Leste, is keen to attract foreign investments from Southeast Asia in key sectors such as infrastructure, tourism, digital technology, petroleum and education.

In a press brief at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kula Lumpur, Malaysia, Timor Leste President José Ramos-Horta called on member states to expand trade and investment ties with Timor-Leste, saying that ASEAN membership opens up "tremendous potential” for shared economic growth and cooperation.

He said Timor-Leste aims to create a more attractive investment environment, particularly in infrastructure, tourism and digital technology, stressing the importance of creating favourable conditions for regional investment, including incentives, protections, and a business environment that fosters partnerships.

Timor-Leste has outlined plans to modernise public administration and strengthen human resources, including retraining civil servants and sending young citizens abroad to gain skills in technology, engineering, and agriculture. ASEAN membership is expected to enhance the country’s regional integration, attract investor confidence, and allow Timor-Leste to both benefit from and contribute to regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

AKP-VNA