DILI, 06 March 2026 (TATOLI) – Finder Energy, an Australian energy company has briefed Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão on preparations for the development of the Kuda Tasi oil field, a project expected to begin production in 2027 and seen as a key opportunity to strengthen the country’s future energy sector.
The update was provided by Damon Neaves, Chief Executive Officer of Finder Energy, following a meeting with the prime minister on Thursday at the Government Palace in Dili.
Neaves said the meeting aimed to inform the head of government about the progress of the project and the next steps toward the planned start of production.
The project is being developed through a partnership between Finder Energy and Timor GAP, Timor-Leste’s state-owned oil and gas company. Initial production is estimated at about 25 million barrels of oil.
He said this is a strategic program, saying his company is proud to work together with the Government to make this initiative a reality.
Neaves added that Finder Energy and Timor GAP recently acquired a floating processing unit that will be used to process oil from the field. The vessel is currently in Europe and will later be transported to the production site.
The Kuda Tasi field is located in the Timor Sea, off the southern coast of Timor-Leste, within the former Joint Petroleum Development Area.
The field was first discovered in 1998 through exploratory drilling conducted by ConocoPhillips and its partners.
The development of the Kuda Tasi field could help support job creation and strengthen Timor-Leste’s economy as the country seeks to diversify its energy resources and maintain long-term revenue from the petroleum sector.
Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
