Workshop 16th of February 2024, at the EU Conference Centre.
Lead by: Phillip M. Young, Key Experts & Agricultural Economist
Within The Project Preparation & Implementation Programme for Timor Leste (PPIP) project’s forestry sector, significant efforts have been dedicated to the preparation of the Feasibility Study; “Expanding tree cover and carbon resources through commercial tree crops.” This study focuses on generating sustainable revenues from wood and carbon through responsible large and small-scale commercial forest production contributing to environmental preservation and socio-economic development. Some key activities within this sector include the development of gross margin models for financial and economic analysis in collaboration with relevant entities; consultation with the European Union Delegation (EUD) on project design and complementarity; capacity building on specific topics; and the identification of suitable state land for large-scale commercial forestry activities. Additionally, there will be opportunities for small-scale forestry activities by local stakeholders on adjacent land under customary land use practices, further promoting community engagement and participation.
PPIP Key Expert and Agricultural Economist Philip Young conducted a successful Workshop on the Timor Leste Commercial Forestry Project (TLCFP), of which the primary focus was to discuss the project’s design and gather input from stakeholders. There was a comprehensive discussion on the fundamental rationale and design. The participants discussed the importance of the TLCFP’s alignment with the objectives of the 9th Government of Timor Leste. Additionally, the participants raised important questions and suggestions regarding temporary nurseries, species selection, carbon markets, and market analysis for wood. The workshop successfully highlighted the need for information sharing among interested development partners and demonstrated a collective commitment to the success of the TLCFP. The workshop also highlighted the growing regional demand for wood and wood products, presenting an opportunity for Timor Leste to establish its own commercial forestry industry Key attendees included representatives from the EUD, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Ministry of Planning and Strategic Investment, along with several new Director Generals and Section Heads who displayed a genuine interest in the TLCFP.
