Written reply to PQ on Commercial and Sectoral Opportunities for Singapore SMES Following Timor-Leste’s Accession to ASEAN

Question:

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry following Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN (a) what commercial and sectoral opportunities has Enterprise Singapore identified for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to launch operations; and (b) what support mechanisms are being deployed to facilitate SME market entry in Timor-Leste.

Written Answer by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong

1.      Timor Leste is in the early stages of implementing the Roadmap for Timor-Leste’s Full Membership in ASEAN, following its accession to ASEAN on 26 October 2025. It is undertaking the necessary domestic reforms towards a more accessible, transparent and predictable economic environment. 

2.      While it is premature to identify specific commercial and sectoral opportunities for Singapore companies in the country, Enterprise Singapore will extend facilitation support to companies with interest to set up or expand in Timor-Leste. 

3.      SMEs looking to expand their operations overseas, including in Timor-Leste, can access government schemes such as the Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) and Enterprise Financing Scheme (EFS).