Exploring Strategic Collaboration with IFC to Attract Investment into Timor-Leste
- Han Hui Tan
- Mar 5
- 2 min read
Date: 2 March 2026
Location: IFC – World Bank Group Headquarter Office, Dili, Timor-Leste
On Monday, 2 March 2026, Mr. Marlo Cristianto Liu Da Costa, Co-Founder of D&T Advisory, held a productive meeting with Ms. Rita Pires, Operations Officer at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), World Bank Group, to discuss potential areas of collaboration aimed at facilitating greater investment inflows into Timor-Leste.
The discussion centered on how both parties could work together to strengthen the investment ecosystem and support international investors exploring opportunities in the country.
Strengthening the Investment Ecosystem in Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste is increasingly gaining attention as an emerging investment destination, particularly as the country continues to develop its infrastructure, diversify its economy, and strengthen its institutional framework.
During the meeting, both parties exchanged perspectives on the growing interest from international investors, as well as the importance of establishing credible channels of information, advisory support, and coordination to facilitate successful market entry.
D&T Advisory shared insights from its on-the-ground experience supporting businesses entering Timor-Leste, including the practical considerations investors often face when navigating a developing market.
Potential Areas of Collaboration
The meeting explored several areas where IFC – World Bank Group could play an important role in supporting investment facilitation efforts, particularly in providing technical expertise and institutional support.
Under the potential collaboration framework, IFC may contribute in several key capacities, including:
Information provider for investors seeking reliable market insights and sector analysis
Partnering investment advisor, offering technical perspectives on investment structures and feasibility
Strategic planning contributor, supporting long-term development and sectoral planning discussions
Communication bridge between investors and authorities, helping facilitate dialogue between international investors and relevant institutions
Such collaboration could significantly enhance the confidence of investors exploring Timor-Leste, especially those seeking credible institutional perspectives when assessing opportunities in frontier markets.
A Shared Commitment to Responsible Investment
Both sides also discussed the broader importance of ensuring that investment initiatives contribute to sustainable economic development and long-term growth in Timor-Leste.
With its global experience supporting private sector development, IFC plays a critical role in strengthening investment environments in emerging economies, and its potential involvement could help bring valuable technical knowledge, best practices, and international perspectives to investment initiatives in Timor-Leste.
Looking Ahead
D&T Advisory expresses its sincere gratitude to IFC – World Bank Group for the constructive discussion and strong interest shown during the meeting.
Moving forward, D&T Advisory will continue engaging with international development organisations, institutions, and strategic partners to bring the best technical support, advisory expertise, and global perspectives to investors interested in Timor-Leste.
Through collaboration with credible partners, the goal is to build stronger bridges between investors, institutions, and local stakeholders, supporting sustainable investment and long-term economic development in the country.
D&T Advisory remains committed to facilitating meaningful partnerships that help unlock Timor-Leste’s investment potential while supporting responsible and well-structured business growth. Interested in Exploring Opportunities in Timor-Leste?
If you are an investor or organisation interested in learning more about the investment landscape and opportunities in Timor-Leste, we welcome you to connect with us.
Get in touch with D&T Advisory:
📧 Email:
Malaysia: +6012-736 1172
Timor-Leste: +670-7402 9163
Let’s explore how we can support your entry into Timor-Leste’s growing market.
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