EU supports Timor-Leste’s public and private sectors in preparing for the implementation of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA)
Taking place from 13 to 15 October 2026 in Dili, the programme includes a Workshop on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) for Timor-Leste’s Public Sector on 13–14 October, followed by a Private Sector Session on DEFA for Timor-Leste’s Businesses on 15 October.
In their opening remarks, H.E. Mr. Filipus Nino Pereira, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and H.E. Mr. Thorsten Bargfrede, European Union Ambassador to Timor-Leste, highlighted that the workshops are expected to contribute to a stronger understanding of DEFA among national stakeholders and support ongoing efforts to implement the Agreement and integrate Timor-Leste into the regional digital economy landscape.
Over the three-day programme, participants explored the key provisions and objectives of DEFA, discuss Timor-Leste’s readiness for implementation, and examine priority areas where policy, regulatory, institutional, and private sector engagement may be required. Topics of discussions were varied including digital trade, e-commerce, digital payments, data governance, cybersecurity, innovation, and digital connectivity.
The public sector workshop focused on strengthening the Government’s understanding of DEFA and identifying actions that can support effective implementation and coordination across institutions. The private sector session also provided businesses with an opportunity to better understand the Agreement, discuss its potential impact on trade and investment, and share perspectives on the opportunities and challenges associated with digital transformation.
As Timor-Leste advances its ASEAN integration journey, fostering dialogue between government institutions and the private sector remains essential to ensuring that the country can maximize the opportunities presented by regional digital economic cooperation. The European Union remains steadfast in its support for Timor-Leste’s digitalization priorities, including its integration into regional digital economic frameworks.
ITC