Acting Vice Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs (MCAE, acronym in Tetum) and Minister of Tourism and Environment through the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, Marcos da Cruz presented the budget report for fiscal year 2025 and the proposed OJE 2026 to the National Parliament.

In his speech during the presentation session of the 2025 fiscal year budget and the 2026 budget proposal to the National Parliament, the Interim Vice Prime Minister underlined that Timor-Leste’s economy still faces various challenges but has significant opportunities for growth to improve people’s well-being. “With our strength, determination, and unity, the government will continue to take steps to overcome obstacles and capitalize on opportunities for the well-being of the people,” he stated.

In the field of economic development, diversification remains crucial, particularly through productive sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and the oil industry. It is believed that the great potential of ecotourism, community tourism, and religious tourism should be sustainably developed to benefit local communities and support domestic businesses and environmental protection.

Regarding the budget report, for fiscal year 2025, the MCAE Office, including the Dili Convention Center (CCD), received a budget of USD 4,503,490, with a current execution rate of 64%. It consists of: Commitment: USD 68,987.37 (2%), Actual Expenditure: USD 2,790,287.81 (62%) and Remaining Balance: USD 1,644,214.82 (36%)
Meanwhile, for fiscal year 2026, the budget approved by the government for MCAE-CCD reaches USD 8,874,311, with details such as Salaries and wages: USD 1,724,311, Goods and services: USD 2,000,000, Public transfers: USD 1,000,000 and Capital development: 5,000,000.

Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, Marcos da Cruz in his final statement expressed his appreciation to the Members of Parliament for their support and collaboration. “I am confident that with continued partnership, we can make real progress towards a stronger and more sustainable economy for Timor-Leste.”