DILI, 17 June 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste on Tuesday launched a three-day national workshop aimed at strengthening trade facilitation through customs modernization and the development of the National Single Window, as the country accelerates preparations for deeper regional economic integration and ASEAN membership.
The workshop, running from June 16 to 18, is jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MNEC), the Timor-Leste Customs Authority, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). It is being held at the Salão Nobre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation in Dili.
The workshop brings together representatives from government institutions and relevant stakeholders to discuss ways to enhance trade facilitation, improve customs procedures, and strengthen inter-agency coordination in support of Timor-Leste’s economic development and regional integration.
During the three-day program, participants will learn from the experiences of customs experts from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Sompasong Amphaengphai and Vongtavanh, who will share lessons from the modernization of Lao Customs and the implementation of both the National Single Window and the ASEAN Single Window. Zeca Amaral from the Timor-Leste Customs Authority also presented the Authority’s progress, achievements, and experiences in developing the Timor-Leste National Single Window.
In the opening ceremony, Ralyana Ribeiro, representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, emphasized that customs modernization is a key priority for Timor-Leste’s ASEAN integration.
She highlighted the importance of efficient customs procedures, digital trade facilitation, and the National Single Window in enhancing trade, investment, and competitiveness.
Ralyana also welcomed the opportunity to learn from Lao PDR’s experience and expressed appreciation to the Government of Japan and JICA for their continued support to Timor-Leste’s ASEAN integration process.
TATOLI
