On February 6th and 12th, 2026, the 9th Constitutional Government launched construction of the new Municipal Markets of Ermera and Baucau, respectively, as part of an initiative by the Ministry of Trade and Industry. The ceremonies were chaired by Vice-Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs Mariano Assanami Sabino, representing Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão. 
In Ermera, the project represents an investment of around US$8.9 million and is scheduled for completion in 2027. The new infrastructure aims to improve market conditions, facilitate the distribution of agricultural products from rural areas, and strengthen the link between producers and consumers.
In his speech, the Vice Prime Minister stated, “This market belongs to the people of Ermera. It is essential that we work together, without political or partisan divisions, joining forces for the common good and the progress of the municipality.” The Vice Prime Minister also called on the population to cooperate so that the work can be carried out without being hindered and within the established deadline.
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Nino Pereira, stated that “the new market represents an opportunity to strengthen the local economy, which is the basis for national economic progress and development,” emphasising the need for adequate infrastructure to boost trade and enhance national production.
The President of the Municipal Authority of Ermera, José Martinho dos Santos Soares, called on the community to support the project, stating that the municipal market should meet national and international quality standards and establish itself as an infrastructure of such standards.
In Baucau, the project was launched on February 12th, with an investment of approximately US$7.1 million and is scheduled for completion in November 2027. The new market is intended to provide a dignified and organised space for vendors and to promote municipal economic activity.
During the ceremony, the Vice Prime Minister stated that “the Government’s commitment is to build a dignified space for our people, especially for vendors, so that they can carry out their activities, because economic development begins with the people.” The Vice Prime Minister also called for cooperation from everyone — political parties, veterans, village (suco) and hamlet (aldeia) authorities — to ensure the quality of the work and compliance with the deadline.
The Minister of Trade and Industry emphasised that the new market is “a good opportunity for the Baucau community to develop its business in the future,” adding that the infrastructure will support traders’ activities and promote local products.
The President of the Municipal Authority of Baucau, Veneranda Lemos, said that the date marks a new moment for the municipality, with the start of construction of infrastructure that will improve conditions for vendors to carry out their activities.
Both projects are part of the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s plan to build and renovate municipal markets across the country, with the aim of strengthening commercial infrastructure and supporting local economic development. The Lautém Municipal Market is also scheduled to open at the end of February, and projects for new markets in Maliana, Ainaro, Suai, and Viqueque are currently in the technical preparation phase.