Timor Leste

Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, covers about 15,000 km² and lies in Southeast Asia between Indonesia and Australia. Its landscape is mountainous, with narrow coastal plains and a tropical climate marked by distinct wet and dry seasons. These natural conditions shape agricultural practices and limit large-scale farming.

Before Portuguese colonisation in the 16th century, local communities relied on subsistence agriculture and livestock herding. During colonial rule, coffee production was introduced as a key export crop. After gaining independence in 2002, agriculture remained central to rural livelihoods.

Today, the primary sector contributes roughly 20–25% of GDP and employs the majority of the population. About 25–30% of the land is used for agriculture. Coffee is the most important cash crop and a major export. Staple crops include maize, rice and cassava, mainly grown for domestic consumption. Livestock farming includes cattle, goats and poultry.

Forests cover nearly 50% of the country’s territory, though deforestation is a concern in some areas.

Timor-Leste’s surrounding seas support small-scale fisheries that contribute to local diets and livelihoods.

Overall, the primary sector reflects the country’s mountainous geography and tropical climate: subsistence crop farming, coffee production, livestock rearing and coastal fishing. Despite the importance of oil revenues, agriculture, forestry and fisheries remain vital for food security and employment.

In 2017, Gerold and Klaudia have been for three days on Timor Leste.