The Minister of Trade and Industry, Nino Pereira, took part in the seminar ‘Increasing the Profitability of Rice Production and Improving Food Security in Timor-Leste’, organised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), which took place on 4 October 2024 at Timor-Plaza in Dili. The event brought together experts and representatives from various organisations with the aim of identifying strategies to strengthen local rice production and thus reduce dependence on imports and guarantee food security in the country.

During his speech, Minister Nino Pereira stressed that food security is essential for the sustainability of Timor-Leste’s economy, although he recognised that the country currently still depends on rice imports.

‘Our commitment to food security involves strengthening national rice production in order to ensure that, from harvest to market, the local product is valued. However, we recognise the great difficulties faced, especially in terms of human resources in the agricultural sector. Agriculture in Timor-Leste, which is essential for many Timorese, faces challenges that affect productivity and that require attention from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Trade and Industry,’ said Minister Nino Pereira.

The Minister added that the collaboration of the private sector is fundamental to the development of Timor-Leste’s agricultural potential. ‘It is necessary for the private sector and stakeholders to work together to find solutions that make it possible to reduce dependence on imported rice, while at the same time increasing domestic production,’ he emphasised.

This seminar represents an important step in the government’s efforts to foster resilient, sustainable and profitable agriculture, promoting food security and the country’s economic development.