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The Timor Sea houses significant reservoirs of oil and natural gas that have been at the cornerstone of Timor-Leste’s national development since 2002. These resources have played a central role, contributing to government revenue, infrastructure development, and job creation. Revenue from oil and gas have enabled the government to investing in core sectors, thus improving the quality of life for all Timorese, and without incurring substantial foreign debt. The exploration of its reservoirs of oil and natural gas will continue to drive national development of the nation, alongside other economic diversification initiatives.
The Timor Sea is home to rich and diverse marine life and various species of fish are abundant including tuna, mackerel, and snapper. The fishing industry, still in its nascent stages, generates income for sustain the livelihoods of coastal communities. Timor-Leste is in the process of developing its national fishing industry to include taking, processing, preserving, storing, transporting and the marketing and sales of fish and other seafood from the Timor Sea.
The Timor Sea is teeming with exceptional marine ecosystems and biodiversity, including healthy coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. Its marine ecosystems support a wide variety of species and are vital for maintaining healthy fish populations. Timor waters also boast some of the highest records of cetaceans in the world and at least twenty-five species of whales and dolphins migrate and swim annually past Timor-Leste.
The Timorese government recognises the importance of land and maritime environmental sustainability to protect the livelihoods and well-being of its population. Managing sustainable development, protecting and preserving the marine ecosystems and the rich biodiversity of the Timor Sea is a priority for the government as it seeks to make full use of all its natural resources towards achieving national development goals, including the lifting of its population out of poverty.
The whale season running from October to November annually is becoming a main attraction for tourists coming to the country to enjoy world-class diving. Many tourists are also drawn by the opportunity to enjoy pristine beaches away from the hustle and bustle of more developed destinations. Timor-Leste is also a safe country for tourists who are able to enjoy unique cultural exchange and experiences, through storytelling, song & dance, and rituals.
