Timor-Leste Begins Export of Laga Salt to New Zealand
On October 3rd, 2026, at Tibar Bay Port in Liquiçá, the Vice-Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, and the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Filipus Nino Pereira, attended the launch of the first export of salt produced in Laga, Baucau Municipality, to New Zealand, totalling 300 tonnes.
A Timorese company is handling the export, marking the entry of this national product into the New Zealand market as part of efforts to increase national production, diversify exports, and develop the private sector.
The initiative took place one day after the Ministry of Commerce and Industry signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the company behind the project, aimed at supporting the development of Timor-Leste's salt industry. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation under which the Government supports the sector’s development and the company leads commercial activities based on national production, processing, and export.
The Memorandum of Understanding aims to increase national salt production, progressively reduce dependence on imports, and promote products that meet the quality standards required by international markets. The initiative also aims to create jobs and income-generating opportunities in production areas.
During the ceremony, Vice-Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay highlighted the Timorese private sector's initiative and the growth potential of the national industry.
“We hope this small industry can grow even further,” the Vice-Prime Minister said.
The Minister of Commerce and Industry emphasised that increasing national production will expand the country’s salt supply and reduce imports as productive capacity is strengthened.
“This demonstrates seriousness on the part of both the Government and the private sector. Today, salt produced in Timor is already being exported. As national production increases, we will reduce salt imports,” stated Filipus Nino Pereira.
According to information presented at the launch, activities linked to the salt industry have already created more than 500 jobs. The company plans to increase production and progressively expand operations to other areas of the country.
In addition to New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, the United States of America, and Canada were also identified as potential markets for national salt.
Laga salt exports build on the development of national production and the pursuit of new foreign markets for products produced and processed in Timor-Leste.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
