The Age

Victoria helps set up Timor business lobby

March 3, 2010

VICTORIAN industry groups are pushing to open new markets in East Timor - one of Australia's poorest neighbours - and set up a local lobby to give a stronger voice to Timorese business.

Peter McMullin, of the Victorian Employers' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI), will go to East Timor today to finalise plans for an inaugural meeting of East Timor's national commercial lobby, expected to be held next month.

To be known as the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Timor Leste, the organisation has been set up with help from Victoria and plans to link the local business community to the Timorese government.

East Timor's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao sought the assistance of Victoria to create a Timorese business association, following the appointment of former premier Steve Bracks as his special adviser.

Business links to East Timor are not extensive but are thought to have significant potential, with Victoria home to the largest East Timorese population in Australia.

VECCI also led a trade mission to East Timor last September with representatives from the building, legal and tourism industries.

The East Timor chamber of commerce is expected to hold its first congress in early April.

DANIEL FLITTON

Victoria helps set up Timor business lobby

March 3, 2010

VICTORIAN industry groups are pushing to open new markets in East Timor - one of Australia's poorest neighbours - and set up a local lobby to give a stronger voice to Timorese business.

Peter McMullin, of the Victorian Employers' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI), will go to East Timor today to finalise plans for an inaugural meeting of East Timor's national commercial lobby, expected to be held next month.

To be known as the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Timor Leste, the organisation has been set up with help from Victoria and plans to link the local business community to the Timorese government.

East Timor's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao sought the assistance of Victoria to create a Timorese business association, following the appointment of former premier Steve Bracks as his special adviser.

Business links to East Timor are not extensive but are thought to have significant potential, with Victoria home to the largest East Timorese population in Australia.

VECCI also led a trade mission to East Timor last September with representatives from the building, legal and tourism industries.

The East Timor chamber of commerce is expected to hold its first congress in early April.

DANIEL FLITTON

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