DILI, 21 October 2025 (TATOLI) – The Agriculture Ministry and Udayana University mapped the farming potential of Timor-Leste’s regions in a new study.
The event was opened by Secretary of State for Forestry Fernandinho Vieira, representing the Agriculture Minister.
In his remarks, Vieira said the research provides a vital foundation for government policy aimed at boosting sustainable agricultural production.
“This study helps us understand land characteristics so we can determine which crops are best suited for each region and municipality,” he said during a seminar at agriculture ministry office in Dili on Tuesday.
He explained that the result of the study will enable the ministry technical team to identify suitable commodities for different soil types, allowing farmers to work more efficiently and in line with their local potential.
The land mapping initiative is part of the IX Constitutional Government’s Plan, which prioritizes land management as a cornerstone of national agricultural development.
According to Vieira, scientific land assessment will strengthen food policy and support domestic production of key commodities.
“With continuous research, we’ll have comprehensive data to guide national agricultural policy and help farmers improve productivity,” he added.
Udayana University research team leader, Made Rigunasih, said the study covered seven municipalities in 2025, following earlier work in six regions in 2024.
“This year, we conducted research in Lautém, Manatuto, Dili, Aileu, Liquiça, Ermera, and Ainaro. Each municipality shows distinct agricultural strengths,” Rigunasih said.
She explained that Lautém has vast land suitable for horticulture, rice, and plantation crops such as candlenut, coconut, and cocoa.
“Manatuto offers fertile soil for vanilla, Arabica and Robusta coffee, and tropical fruits, while Aileu remains a prime area for Arabica coffee cultivation,” Rigunasih said.
The study also recommends agroforestry-based land management for areas with steep terrain, with a composition of 60% forestry and 40% agriculture.
Meanwhile, irrigated flatlands require higher productivity through balanced use of organic and inorganic fertilizers.
The study involved field identification, laboratory analysis, and data tabulation.
The findings will serve as a scientific database to guide Timor-Leste’s agricultural planning and promote sustainable, evidence-based development.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
