06/06/2026
New Delhi, 🇮🇳. H. E. Ambassador Karlito Nunes joined a webinar on Tourism and Investment Opportunities in Timor-Leste organized by Dr. Subhash Goyal, CEO, Founder of STIC, Travel Group and Aero Dili.
H. E. Ambassador Nunes highlights, the tourism perspective, Indian travellers often explore destinations to other countries however Timor-Leste can offers pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty that can be promoted as a new travel destination.
Timor-Leste is home to some of the world’s most pristine coral reefs and extraordinary marine biodiversity. The waters surrounding Atauro Island are scientifically recognized for having one of the highest reef fish diversities globally. The country’s marine ecosystems include more than 400 species of reef-building corals, along with vibrant soft corals, giant sea fans, and extensive coral gardens that remain in excellent condition. This rich biodiversity represents not only a natural treasure but also a strong foundation for developing a sustainable blue economy.
The Government of Timor-Leste has initiated several strategic projects, including the development of Atauro National Park, the Marine Investigation and Education Centre on Atauro Island, and mangrove restoration and expansion programmes. These initiatives aim to protect coastal ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and address the impacts of climate change.
Overall, Timor-Leste is a beautiful island nation with crystal-clear waters, rich marine biodiversity, and strong eco-tourism potential, and in the coming years, it has the potential to become a preferred destination for Indian tourists.
However, there are certain challenges, such as the absence of direct flights between Delhi and Dili. Improving air connectivity between the two capitals should be a priority to further strengthen people-to-people and business links.
Timor-Leste is a producer of the best coffee and various natural resources. One of its most notable cultural products is tais, a traditional handwoven textile made primarily by women of the country, which reflects its rich tangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO.
From India’s perspective, exports to Timor-Leste mainly include Rice, Pharmaceutical and Medicines etc., while imports from Timor-Leste to India remain minimal. To strengthen bilateral ties, there is a need to enhance trade and diversify economic engagement between the two countries.
In conclusion, Timor-Leste is a friendly and promising nation that uses the US dollar as its currency. With low tariffs on Indian products, it presents opportunities for trade diversification.
Timor-Leste can emerge as a complementary market, helping India further expand its export base and potentially serving as a gateway for broader regional trade.
The webinar was participated tourism promoters and charters in all over India.
