Local enterprises improve their capacity to boost Timor-Leste's export trade in agroforestry products

Dili, Timor-Leste (ILO News) – The European Union funded Agroforestry Skills for Employment and Resilience Project conducted a comprehensive two-day workshop aimed at enhancing the export potential of Timor-Leste's agroforestry sector from 19-23 August.

This event brought together 55 participants from various sectors, including private sector, enterprises, business owners, and key government institutions. Hosted at JL Villa, the training provided a vital opportunity for local enterprises to acquire new knowledge and skills focused on developing and expanding agroforestry business through exports trade.

I now have a plan to establish a cacao plantation on my land in Same. My goal is to cultivate many cacao trees, expand production over time, and eventually export the cacao to international markets, contributing to economic growth in the country.

Madalena Mendes, a dedicated entrepreneur from the private sector

The two-day training session, facilitated by international business consultant Aris Darujo from Indonesia, has empowered local enterprises aiming to enter the global market. With over 20 years of experience in developing new export markets across Europe, the USA, Africa, and Asia, Darujo brought essential knowledge and practical insights to the participants.

Highlighting the significance of the program, Darujo stated, "The training on Agroforestry Export Trade and Business is crucial for companies considering entering the export market. Understanding topics such as market intelligence, successful participation in international trade fairs, accurate calculation of export prices, sustainability practices, and understanding the European Union's Due Diligence Regulations (EUDR) is essential to equip businesses for international success."

One of the participants, Madalena Mendes, a dedicated entrepreneur from the private sector, reflected on her experience, "It was a fantastic learning experience as I acquired new knowledge and skills on export information. During the sessions, together with facilitators and other participants, I felt that this really helps us understand the processes involved in exporting our products abroad."

Before attending the training, Madalena faced significant challenges in accessing crucial information about product exportation to international markets. However, the training provided her with accessible tools and knowledge she needed to overcome these barriers. "Now, I know how to access export information related to global trade and connect with overseas buyers," she said, highlighting the new confidence she gained through the programme.

Inspired by the training, Madalena is now motivated to invest in agroforestry, particularly in cocoa plantation, in her hometown of Same, Manufahi. She shared her ambitious plans, stating, "I now have a plan to establish a cacao plantation on my land in Same. My goal is to cultivate many cacao trees, expand production over time, and eventually export the cacao to international markets, contributing to economic growth in the country.”

The Agroforestry Skills project is managed by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to offer agroforestry skills training and business development opportunities for increased income and revenue generation, with a particular emphasis on coconut, vanilla, and cocoa value chains. This workshop was conducted under a cooperation agreement signed in May between the ILO and Trade Invest that focuses on promoting and developing the production, marketing, and export of key agroforestry products.