The Timor-Leste Women in Business Awards recognised women entrepreneurs supporting national economic development.
The third Timor-Leste Women in Business Awards 2026 took place in Dili on 17 September, recognising women entrepreneurs and their contribution to the country’s private sector and economic development. The ceremony welcomed Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, President José Ramos-Horta, members of the Government and National Parliament, representatives of the diplomatic corps and private-sector figures.
In his address, Prime Minister Gusmão highlighted the role of Timorese women throughout the country’s history and their growing participation in economic development. “Our history shows us that the strength of Timorese women has always been part of the strength of Timor-Leste,” he said. He also stressed the need for stronger domestic businesses capable of producing goods and services, creating employment and reducing dependence on imports.
Prime Minister Gusmão said the Government had a responsibility to create suitable conditions for business development through economic stability, infrastructure investment and greater international economic integration. He referred to Timor-Leste’s accession to the World Trade Organisation in 2024 and ASEAN in 2025 as opportunities for trade, investment and private-sector growth. He also addressed difficulties small businesses, particularly women-owned enterprises, faced in accessing finance, pointing to the creation of the National Development Bank as one measure intended to improve access to capital.
The Timor-Leste Women in Business Awards were organised by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, in partnership with the Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Timor-Leste (AEMTL). The third edition recognised ten individual and institutional winners in nine categories covering corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, cooperative leadership, career development, financial services and women’s economic empowerment. Addressing the finalists, Prime Minister Gusmão said they “demonstrate the potential that already exists in Timor-Leste” and encouraged women entrepreneurs to continue developing their businesses and ideas.
Source: Government of Timor-Leste
