Last updated: 26 Oct 2012
Market profile
Doing Business
Tetum and Portuguese are the official languages of East Timor, with some English spoken in business circles. Indonesian is also used widely, especially in rural and regional areas. Knowing the local languages will assist in both a business and social setting.
More information on doing business in East Timor
Country Profile
Content supplied by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- ECONOMIC CLIMATE
East Timor is one of the poorest countries in the Asia-Pacific region and its economy is one of the most heavily petroleum-dependent in the world.
» read more at DFAT
- POLITICAL CLIMATE
East Timor became the first new nation of the new millennium when it became the Democratic Republic of East Timor on 20 May 2002.
» read more at DFAT
- TRADE RELATIONS
Australia has been at the forefront of international support for East Timor during its first 10 years of independence.
» read more at DFAT
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is a voluntary mechanism which promotes and supports improved governance in resource-rich countries through the full publication and verification of company payments and government revenues from oil, gas, and mining.
The EITI is supported by governments, industry, and non-government organisations around the world. The Australian Government supports the EITI and encourages Australian companies operating internationally to comply with its recommendations.