KUALA LUMPUR, 14 NOVEMBER 2025 – The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is spearheading a strategic Export Acceleration Mission (EAM) to Timor-Leste from 17 to 21 November 2025 in Dili, aiming to unlock new trade opportunities in the ASEAN region.
This mission marks a significant milestone in strengthening Malaysia-Timor-Leste economic ties following Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN on 26 October 2025 during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
A total of 19 Malaysian companies will participate in the mission, representing key and high-value sectors including oil and gas-related services, information and communication technology (ICT), machinery, food and beverages (F&B), biotechnology, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), training and development, and household products.
The four-day programme will feature a business seminar, pitching sessions, one-on-one business matching meetings, product showcase as well as site visits to commercial hubs — all designed to facilitate meaningful engagement between Malaysian exporters and Timorese business associations and other relevant stakeholders.
Organised by MATRADE with strong support from the Embassy of Malaysia in Dili, the mission aims to enhance market access and explore new trade opportunities in one of Southeast Asia’s emerging economies. This initiative forms part of Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to diversify export destinations and reduce dependency on traditional market, while expanding Malaysian business presence in new and frontier markets.
It also supports Malaysia’s strategic goal to strengthen its global footprint by positioning Malaysian companies as reliable partners offering innovative, high-growth and high value products and services.
This mission represents Malaysia’s strong commitment to supporting Timor-Leste’s economic integration within ASEAN, while helping Malaysian businesses tap into new growth areas. MATRADE looks forward to fostering partnership that will bring mutual benefits in trade, investment, and capacity building.
Through targeted networking and engagement sessions, the mission will encourage discussions on collaboration, investment, and technology sharing between Malaysian and Timorese companies — particularly in areas aligned with Timor-Leste’s development priorities.
The Export Acceleration Mission to Timor-Leste underscores Malaysia’s commitment to promoting inclusive regional trade integration and advancing intra-ASEAN trade, in line with the nation’s broader strategy to diversify exports and strengthen its role as a reliable and competitive trading partner in the global market.
In 2024, Malaysia’s total trade with Timor-Leste stood at RM85.7 million (USD19 million), with exports amounting to RM84.1 million (USD18.6 million) and imports valued at RM1.6 million (USD0.4 million).
