International Development Law Organization Conducts Course on
Trade Law Issues
The International Development Law Organization (IDLO) conducted a second course on trade law issues from 27-28 April in Dili. Approximately 20 people from trade-related departments of the Timorese government participated in the course which focused on the terms of the Cotonou Agreement signed between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific Island Countries. The objective of the course was to familiarize the participants with key trade concepts, such as rules of origin and the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement and to discuss the benefits and implications for Timor-Leste’s adherence to the agreement. This is the second in a series of five courses on trade law issues funded by USAID this year. (May 2, 2006)


USAID Helps Establish Timor-Leste Business Forum
The Timor-Leste Business Forum, or "Forum dos Empresarios de Timor-Leste" (FETL), was officially established on 27-28 April at a gathering of business leaders in Dili. USAID's Development Support Project (DSP), implemented by Development Alternatives, Inc., provided technical assistance and advice and was joined by the World Bank, IFC and the Government to sponsor the gathering. More than 160 participants from 21 national and district business associations as well as individual entrepreneurs attended this meeting. FETL officers were elected and participants discussed key issues affecting the private sector in Timor-Leste were discussed during the event, such as access to finance and business registration. President Xanana Gusmao and Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri were present at the closing ceremony, witnessing the swearing-in of the FETL office holders. US Ambassador Grover Joseph Rees also attended, as did several other diplomatic representatives and members of the Timor-Leste government and UN agencies. The establishment of FETL is a key step to strengthen the private sector and the business environment in Timor-Leste. DSP will continue to support FETL, promote growth of the financial and commercial services industries, and investigate future agribusiness opportunities for Timor-Leste. (May 2, 2006)

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