Dear members of CCI-TL, entrepreneurs, and partners,
It is with honor and satisfaction that I address you all to celebrate the second year of this mandate. At this moment, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone for the material, financial, moral, and political support that has been essential in consolidating and strengthening this institution in Timor-Leste.
My thanks go to the state bodies, such as the President of the Republic and the National Parliament, for their continuous political support. A special thanks to the IX Constitutional Government led by H.E Prime Minister Maun Boot Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, which has been a close and strategic partner in our initiatives. I also extend my immense gratitude to the honorary members, national and international partners, as well as to the founding and active associations and cooperatives that make up CCI-TL, both nationally and in the municipalities and RAEOA.
In the past year, we prioritized the consolidation of CCI-TL, facing several challenges that, although they caused delays in some initiatives, we managed to achieve significant results through our collective effort. This year, we are committed to supporting private sector initiatives to bring further development to the productive sector, thereby strengthening our economy, reducing dependency on food imports, and creating jobs in our country. Some of the actions we have already undertaken include:
Production and launch of the national product 'Local Rice.'"
Supporting the Government in the formal accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Participating in discussions for full ASEAN membership, with CCI-TL being part of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ABAC).
Developing an action plan to be presented to the IX Government, aimed at establishing solid and effective partnerships in the most important sectors to improve the business environment and strengthen the local economy.
Preparing a legislative decree to reinforce the existence of CCI-TL, replacing government resolution No. 17/2012 of June 13, which recognized the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Timor-Leste.
Launching a database for registering business activities within the territory, which proves to be an important tool.
Creating the official CCI-TL website, which will serve as a platform to promote activities and facilitate contact with our members.
Preparing training for entrepreneurs and staff, with an agreement signed with Portuguese institutions to establish a business school and professional training.
These actions aim to advocate for our members and entrepreneurs and facilitate contact among them, which is essential for CCI-TL.
I encourage all entrepreneurs to actively participate in the meetings and activities organized by CCI-TL. Our business is unique, and healthy competition is the way forward, but a favorable environment and opportunities are essential for the success of our businesses. For this, we need everyone's participation and collaboration. Together, we can create favorable conditions for the growth and success of us all.
Thank you all for the trust you have placed in us.
Dili, November 16, 2024
Jorge Manuel de Araújo Serrano
President of CCI-TL
