Problems with basic infrastructure, excessive bureaucracy and delays in state
payments are among the main problems encountered by international investors in
Timor-Leste (East Timor), according to a study by the Government.
The conclusion is from the Specialised Investment Agency (AEI) of Timor-Leste
based on consultations with investors and entrepreneurs who were sent a
questionnaire about their projects and activities in Timor-Leste.
AEI noted the main problems were difficulties with occasional electrical
discharges that damage equipment and sanitation problems that cause flooding.
Another common problem is bureaucracy and the complex and lengthy process of
invoicing the State and receiving payment.
Delays in signing land lease contracts, time-consuming procedures for renewal
of business registration and the time-consuming and difficult process for
obtaining work visas are also amongst the problems.
“We got many positive responses in relation to the provision of services
SERVE (the one stop shop for Registration of Businesses and Verification
Services),” the document said.
The questionnaire was a follow-up to the Investor Certificates issued since
2006 in order to understand the difficulties and challenges of both national and
international investors.
The analysis, to be completed by July, is intend to “keep an eye on companies
and understand the nature of the investor in Timor-Leste, the usefulness of the
certificates issued by the AEI and to be aware of the main difficulties facing
investors.”
To determine the current situation, the questionnaire covers topics such as
number of employees, wages, business progress, difficulties on the ground, the
registration process, work permits, financing, security and other data.
(macauhub/TL)
Source: http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/2015/06/26/report-identifies-problems-for-investors-in-timor-leste/