DILI, 05 january 2023 (TATOLI) – President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta, on friday, met with David Freedman, Vice President of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), at the Presidential Palace to discuss coffee sector development in Timor-Leste.
The meeting focused on gaining insights and ideas from President Ramos Horta on strengthening the country’s coffee industry and improving market access for Timorese coffee producers.
President Horta expressed concerns over declining coffee production in recent years and the challenges smallholder farmers face in accessing international markets.
The Head of State emphasized the need for greater cooperation between the public and private sectors to revitalize the coffee sector.
In response, Freedman reaffirmed IFC’s commitment to developing partnerships in Timor-Leste’s coffee sector.
He said IFC would work with other entities, including government ministries, development agencies, and the private sector to address issues limiting the growth and competitiveness of Timor-Leste coffee.
The meeting highlights the importance of collaboration between government and private sector stakeholders to tackle challenges in Timor-Leste’s coffee industry: By working together, they can boost production, connect farmers to markets, and realize the full potential of Timorese coffee on the world stage.
The IFC and President Horta both expressed optimism that, through joint efforts, Timor-Leste’s coffee sector can thrive and become an engine of sustainable economic growth for the country.
Journalist: Jose Belarmino de Sa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
