Dili, 9 July 2020 (TATOLI)- Heineken has experienced a drop in commercial volume since investing in Timor-Leste.
The Coordinator Minister for Economic Affairs, Joaquim Amáral, said that the foreign company faced some difficulties before the COVID-19 State of Emergency due to the emergence of competitors in the Timor-Leste market.
“In a meeting with the Manager of Heineken, I have been informed of difficulties facing the company at this stage of their investment. Due to this, Heineken has requested for an assessment to determine the possibility of assisting companies which have encountered economic difficulties during this time,” he said.
According to Mr Amaral, local consumers have shifted to prefer newer beer products, with higher levels of alcohol. This shift has resulted in Heineken taking a loss of its market share, reflected in commercial volumes declining.
In regards to Government support, for the company, to continue its investments in Timor-Leste, Mr Amaral has said that the Government will analyse the issues before making any decisions.
Heineken was the first foreign investor to the industrial sectorand currently employs more than 600 people.
Journalist: Natalino Costa
Editor: Julia Chatarina/ Nicholas Kettle
Translation: Nelia Borges Rosario
